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What NOT To Do: Phishing & Secure Your Workstation

What TO Do: Phishing & Secure Your Workstation

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Email Impersonation

Understanding Email Impersonation and Spoofing 

Email-based cyberattacks are among the most common threats faced by organizations. These attacks are highly effective because they rely on social engineering and deception rather than technical exploits. Instead of hacking systems directly, attackers trick people into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information. 

The good news is that many of these attacks can be prevented through awareness, attention to detail, and verification. 

What Is Email Impersonation? 

Email impersonation occurs when an attacker pretends to be a trusted organization or individual鈥攕uch as Microsoft, IT Support, or another staff member鈥攖o convince recipients to take  

  • Email looks very generic 

 

Why These Attacks Work 

Attackers rely on psychology鈥攕pecifically urgency, fear, and trust鈥攖o manipulate recipients. Even with advanced protections such as Microsoft Defender, some malicious emails can still bypass technical filters and reach inboxes. 

Because of this, user awareness is a critical layer of defense. Technology alone cannot stop every attack. 

How to Stay Safe 

A few tips to help prevent falling for these tricks is to: 

  • Verify the sender鈥檚 email address 

  • Avoid clicking links in unexpected messages 

  • Be careful of emails that urge you to do something 

  • Never share passwords or verification codes 

 

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