We’ve warned our readers in the past about cyber attacks identified as phishing. Yes, phishing is dangerous for unaware phish. We don’t want that phish to be you. Now the problem is more dangerous. Phishing has escalated to the even more pernicious spear phishing.

Phishing Reviewed

·       You receive a message inviting you to access a website or other online document.

·       You (the phish) bite by clicking on an “Open in Docs” button. Sometimes the message seems to be too good to pass up. Even if it doesn’t appear that good, it just looks so real.

·       Once you bite, the hook is set and the phisher uses your contact list to infect the people and businesses on it.

Digital phishing works randomly, just like regular fishing. The phisher casts his line to where the phish are gathered, hoping that one bites.

Spear Phishing Is Targeted

There’s a reason we call it spear phishing: because it is just like spearfishing. The phisher has a specific phish in his crosshairs. Instead of waiting for a random fish to take the bait, the spear phisher has his eye on you or your business, and he is ready to stick it to you.

The spear-phishing cyber attacker already knows your name and enough readily available information about you to get your attention. The method of attraction is much more subtle and sinister. Using your known information, the attack typically comes cleverly disguised as a message from someone you know or some company you do business with and trust. Only it’s not.

If it weren’t for the phishing phrase already in use, we might be describing these attacks as wolves in sheep’s clothing. Your cyber attacker presents him or herself as innocuous and trustworthy.

Fear the Spear

The best way to avoid being spear phished is by exercising an abundance of caution. Be wary of invitations, offers, and surveys that might even possibly be cyber attacks. Even more important is ensuring that your technology is protected. Caution is good, but it now takes security technology to best guard your technology and to keep your computers free of spyware, malware, phishing, and other attacks.

Tech Sentries works diligently to keep you aware of potential dangers and how to take a few, common-sense steps to Guard Your Technology and to ensure the safety of your data and devices.

We are as concerned about your computer system security as you are. Your computer system security is our business. That’s why Tech Sentries is always on duty. Contact us today to learn how we can help you “GUARD YOUR TECHNOLOGY” (843-282-2222).