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Top 5 Phishing Scams to Watch Out for in 2024

Dec 1, 20242 min read

Updated: Dec 2, 2024

Phishing scams continue to evolve, posing significant threats to individuals and organizations alike. In 2024, several sophisticated phishing tactics have emerged, exploiting technological advancements and human vulnerabilities. This article highlights the top five phishing scams of the year, providing insights into their operations and offering guidance on prevention.


1. Deepfake Phishing Attacks

Leveraging artificial intelligence, cybercriminals create realistic audio and video deepfakes to impersonate trusted individuals or authorities. These convincing fabrications are used to manipulate victims into divulging sensitive information or authorizing financial transactions. The rise of deepfake technology has made these scams more prevalent and harder to detect (SOCRadar).


2. QR Code Phishing (Quishing)

With the widespread adoption of QR codes, attackers embed malicious URLs within them. When scanned, these codes direct users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information or install malware on their devices. The convenience of QR codes makes this scam particularly effective, as users may not scrutinize the destination URL (Norton).


3. Spear Phishing via Compromised Third-Party Accounts

Attackers gain access to legitimate third-party accounts and use them to send personalized phishing emails to unsuspecting victims. These emails often appear credible, as they originate from trusted sources, increasing the likelihood of recipients clicking on malicious links or attachments (Egress).


4. Business Email Compromise (BEC) Scams

BEC scams involve impersonating company executives or trusted business partners to trick employees into transferring funds or revealing confidential information. These scams have become more sophisticated, with attackers conducting thorough research to craft convincing messages that exploit organizational hierarchies and processes (Check Point Research).


5. Smishing (SMS Phishing) Attacks

Cybercriminals send fraudulent text messages purporting to be from reputable organizations, urging recipients to click on malicious links or provide personal information. The ubiquity of mobile devices and the immediacy of text messaging make smishing a growing threat, as users may act quickly without verifying the message’s authenticity (The Sun).





Preventative Measures

  • Verify Sources: Always confirm the legitimacy of unsolicited communications, especially those requesting sensitive information or urgent actions.

  • Educate and Train: Regularly educate employees and individuals about the latest phishing tactics and encourage vigilance.

  • Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Utilize MFA to add an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for attackers to gain unauthorized access.

  • Use Security Software: Deploy reputable security solutions that can detect and block phishing attempts across various communication channels.


Staying informed about emerging phishing scams and adopting robust security practices are crucial steps in safeguarding against these evolving threats.


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