Look But Don't Touch: Hackers Sending Targets Image-Based Phishing Scams

In a new twist on phishing campaigns, cybercriminals are luring victims to click on images rather than downloading malicious files or clicking suspicious links.?

Image-based phishing attacks, also known as "image phishing" or "visual phishing," are cyber attacks that use images or graphics to deceive users and steal sensitive information. In traditional text-based phishing emails, attackers use convincing language and URLs to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links or downloading malicious attachments. Image-based phishing takes a different approach, relying on visual elements to deceive victims.

How image-based phishing lures you in:

What's the big deal about clicking on an image? It might be promoting a killer deal or a one-time offer. But when you click the image, you don’t go to the real website. Instead, it’s a fake site designed to steal your personal information.

Here's how image-based phishing attacks work:

1. Deceptive Images: Attackers embed images in the email content instead of using text to deliver the phishing message. These images may contain malicious links, fake login pages, or other deceptive content.
2. Social Engineering: The images used in these attacks often leverage social engineering techniques to create a sense of urgency, curiosity, or fear to prompt users to take immediate action without thinking critically.
3. Obfuscation: Attackers may use techniques to hide the actual destination of the malicious link or disguise it as a legitimate website, making it harder for users to identify the scam.
4. Email Filters Bypass: By using images instead of text, attackers may attempt to evade email security filters that usually rely on analyzing text-based content to detect phishing emails.
5. Credential Theft: The images in these attacks often lead to fake login pages that resemble legitimate websites, tricking users into entering their login credentials, which the attackers then steal.
6. Malware Distribution: Images can also deliver malware by embedding malicious code within the image file. The malware is executed when the user opens the image, compromising the user's device.

Image-based Phishing Characteristics

So, how can you tell if an image is part of a phishing campaign? Here are some warning signs to look out for:

• Unexpected emails: Did you receive an email from someone you don't know or weren't expecting? Verify their identity before clicking on any images or links.
• Too good to be true: If an email promises you extra PTO or a bonus that will be added to your next paycheck just for clicking on an image, remember the golden rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Spelling and grammar mistakes: If an email is riddled with errors, it could be a sign that a hacker is trying to grab your attention.
• ?Mismatched logos or branding: If an email claims to be from a reputable company, but the logo or branding doesn't match up, assume it’s a scam.

How to protect your business from image-based phishing

Now that you know what to look for, let's talk about how to protect your business from these image-based phishing attacks:

1.?Educate your employees: Knowledge is power! Ensure your team knows the latest phishing tactics and knows how to spot the warning signs.

?2. Keep software up-to-date: Just like you wouldn't drive a car with bald tires, don't let your software become outdated. Regular updates help patch security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals might exploit.

?3.?Use strong passwords: Resist the urge to use "password123" for all your accounts. A strong, unique password for each account can help prevent unauthorized access. Using a password manager is even better.

?4. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring people to verify their identity through another method, such as a text message or fingerprint scan.

?5.?Backup your data: In case disaster strikes, make sure you have a backup of all your files. That way, you won't be left high and dry if your data is compromised.

6. Enable image blocking: Some email clients allow you to block images from automatically loading in emails. This can help prevent image-based phishing attacks from executing.

While cybercriminals are getting smarter and smarter with their tactics, there's no need to panic. You can stay one step ahead of these digital tricksters by being aware of the warning signs and taking proactive steps to protect your business.?

If you'd like to learn how to continue building a strong IT system that prevents a data breach, download our eBook- Trophy Phishing: How to Keep Off the Hacker's Hook.