August 18, 2025
While your team might be returning from vacation, cybercriminals are relentlessly active year-round. Research from ProofPoint and Check Point reveals a noticeable surge in phishing scams during the summer months. Here's how you can bolster your defenses and stay vigilant.
Why Are Threats Escalating?
Cyber attackers exploit your summer travel plans by impersonating popular hotel and Airbnb platforms, according to Check Point Research. They report a 55% spike in vacation-related domain registrations in May 2025 compared to last year. Among over 39,000 new domains, 1 in 21 has been identified as malicious or suspicious.
As summer winds down, the back-to-school season triggers another wave of phishing emails pretending to be from universities, targeting both students and staff. Although it may not directly affect your sector, employees checking personal emails on work devices for academic or travel purposes can inadvertently open doors to cyber intrusions, risking your entire business data with just one careless click.
Proactive Steps to Protect Your Business
Despite AI's role in enhancing cybersecurity, it also empowers scammers to craft more believable phishing emails. Educating your team on identifying threats is critical to prevent accidental breaches.
Implement these essential safety measures:
• Vigilantly scrutinize suspicious emails. Don't just spot typos or poor grammar—AI-generated emails can be flawless. Inspect sender addresses and hover over links to verify authenticity.
• Verify URLs carefully. Watch for misspelled links or strange domain extensions like .today or .info, commonly used by scammers.
• Access websites directly. Instead of clicking embedded links, manually enter URLs in your browser to avoid redirection to malicious sites.
• Activate Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra security layer, protecting your credentials and sensitive data even if a breach occurs.
• Use VPNs on public WiFi. When on unsecured networks, a VPN safeguards your data, especially when accessing booking systems or financial accounts.
• Avoid personal email on company devices. Separate personal and professional accounts to reduce risks of cross-contamination through phishing or malware.
• Consult your MSP about endpoint security. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) software actively monitors devices, blocks threats, and alerts your MSP to breaches, minimizing potential damage.
Phishing tactics are evolving rapidly with AI advancements, making ongoing education your strongest defense. Keep your workforce updated to safeguard your organization effectively. Stay alert and protected.
Kick off the season with confidence—click here or give us a call at 314-993-5528 your FREE 10-Minute Discovery Call today.
