Phishing Evolution: Security Challenges

In an increasingly complex digital environment, phishing has evolved from a basic deception technique to a sophisticated tool employing advanced social engineering and high-tech methods. This evolution has allowed attackers to leverage new platforms and exploit both human and technological vulnerabilities.

The Email Phase (Origin of Phishing)

Phishing emerged in the 1990s, primarily through emails posing as financial institutions. Although this technique remains in use, people are more aware of it, making it less effective.

Advanced Phishing

• Spear Phishing: Targeting specific individuals within companies, using personalized information from social networks or public sources.


• Social Media Phishing: Attackers impersonate known contacts or companies on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook to extract confidential information.


• Vishing and Smishing: Using phone calls (Vishing) and text messages (Smishing) to execute phishing, exploiting instant communication and making it harder to trace.


• AI-powered Phishing: Attackers use AI to generate personalized, credible emails tailored to the victim's profile. They can even impersonate voices or faces in video calls to deceive employees.

Conclusion

Phishing has evolved significantly, with an increasingly evident impact on corporate security. Companies must prioritize cybersecurity with robust strategies, continuous training, and advanced technology to prevent substantial losses.