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“In today's digital landscape, a single compromised email can open the door to significant financial and reputational damage. Understanding the risks is no longer optional—it's a critical component of any robust security strategy.”
Email continues to be a widely used method of business communication, with organizations processing tens to hundreds of thousands of emails each day. The increased volume of messages and intrusions, including those that use email, make it difficult to prevent email-based attacks. The past pandemic has exacerbated email's vulnerability, as hacking is a frequent consequence of social actions. As reported in Verizon's 2020 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR), adversaries focus on email as a medium, as evidenced by the fact that 96% of all social attacks are email-based.
How attackers work
Understanding email attack is crucial for organizations to strengthen their defenses. Attackers use targeted strategies and persuasive techniques to exploit vulnerabilities in email infrastructure. They start by identifying targets through research or random selection, then build credibility using domain spoofing or brand impersonation.
The next step crafts the email, where attackers set objectives and create convincing pretexts. In Business Email Compromise (BEC), they may pose as executives to trick employees into transferring funds. Attackers also direct recipients to malicious websites or payloads, gaining access to sensitive resources. By analyzing these methods, organizations can better protect against evolving email threats.
Measures to implement
To prevent email-based attacks, organizations should implement several best practices that focus on strengthening both human and technical defenses.
- Security Awareness Training: Implementing a mature security awareness training program can significantly reduce the risk of social engineering attacks by addressing human error. This program should include regular communications, annual education sessions, and periodic testing to help employees recognize and respond to phishing attempts.
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Email Architecture Configuration: Email architecture is crucial for minimizing vulnerabilities, and regular validation helps identify risks like user enumeration and spoofing. Crowe provides expert assessments to ensure secure and resilient email architecture.
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Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): Crowe offers guidance on setting up and optimizing Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) solutions for external login portals, a crucial measure to protect against credential compromise and enhance authentication processes, requiring a second factor like a mobile app or hardware token.
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Advanced Email Filtering Solutions: Email filtering solutions help organizations detect and quarantine malicious emails, utilizing sender domain information, dynamic content analysis, and attachment file sandboxing. Crowe assists in selecting and configuring tools.
How Crowe can help
Crowe offers comprehensive services, including security awareness training, penetration testing, and advanced email filtering solutions, are designed to fortify your email security strategy and protect your organization from potential breaches. Don't leave your organization vulnerable and learn how we can help you build a stronger, more secure email infrastructure and safeguard your business from evolving threats.
Source: Crowe Global