The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) as part of its mandate to monitor all types of security threats, has recognised that Email Phishing attacks are on the rise in the Caribbean Region. As such, the Agency is advising that everyone should be on alert for these attacks and provides the following recommendations on how to address it should the situation arise:

What is Email Phishing?

Email Phishing is a cyberattack where scammers send fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources. These emails often contain links to fake websites or attachments that install malware on your device. The goal is to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, financial details, or personal data. To protect yourself, always verify the sender's email address, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never share personal information through email.

Types of Email Phishing Attacks:

• Deceptive Phishing: The most common type, where attackers impersonate a legitimate company to steal personal information.
• Spear Phishing: Highly targeted attacks that use personal information to trick victims into revealing sensitive data.
• Whaling: A form of spear phishing that targets high-level executives to steal confidential information.
• Pharming: Attempts to redirect users from legitimate websites to fraudulent ones to steal login credentials.

Awareness and Preventative Techniques:

• Stay Informed: Familiarise yourself with the latest phishing techniques and scams.
• Verify URLs: Always check the URL of the website you are visiting to ensure it's legitimate.
• Check Email Addresses: Look for slight misspellings or unusual characters in email addresses.
• Don't Click Suspicious Links: Hover over links to see the URL before clicking.
• Be Wary of Unexpected Emails: Don't open attachments or click links from unknown sources.
• Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and antivirus software.
• Use Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.
• Train Employees: Provide regular training to help employees recognize and avoid phishing attempts.

Result:

• Secure Email Practices: By following these preventative techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to email phishing attacks.
• Protect Sensitive Information: Keep personal and confidential information safe from cybercriminals.
• Maintain Business Continuity: Prevent disruptions to your work and minimize the risk of financial losses.
• Build Trust: Demonstrate your commitment to cybersecurity and protect your organisation's reputation.

Remember, being assertive in your email practices means taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity and protecting yourself and your organisation from email phishing attacks.