While you and your team might be returning from summer vacations, cybercriminals remain relentlessly active. Studies from ProofPoint and Check Point reveal a notable surge in phishing attacks during the summer months. Here’s how to stay vigilant and safeguard your business.
Understanding the Heightened Threat
Cyber attackers exploit the summer travel season by masquerading as hotel and Airbnb platforms, according to Check Point Research. They’ve identified a 55% rise in newly registered travel-related domains in May 2025 compared to last year, with over 39,000 domains created—one in every 21 flagged as malicious or suspicious.
Additionally, the back-to-school period triggers an increase in phishing scams impersonating official university emails, targeting students and staff alike. Even if your industry isn’t directly affected, employees accessing personal emails on work devices can inadvertently expose your entire company to cyber threats with a single click.
Effective Strategies to Protect Your Business
As AI enhances both cybersecurity defenses and phishing tactics, it’s crucial to educate yourself and your team on recognizing and avoiding deceptive links.
Implement these essential safety measures:
• Vigilantly scrutinize suspicious emails. Beyond spotting spelling errors and awkward phrasing, verify the sender’s email address and the visible link text to confirm authenticity, as AI can craft highly convincing fraudulent messages.
• Verify URLs carefully. Watch for misspellings or unusual domain extensions like .today or .info, which are commonly used in scam websites.
• Access websites directly. Instead of clicking on links in emails or messages, type the website address into your browser to avoid phishing traps.
• Activate Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if login credentials are compromised, your sensitive data remains protected.
• Exercise caution with public WiFi. Use a VPN when connecting to public networks, especially when handling sensitive information like bookings or banking.
• Avoid accessing personal emails on work devices. Keep personal and professional accounts separate to minimize risk exposure.
• Consult your MSP about endpoint security solutions. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools monitor devices, block phishing attempts, and alert your MSP immediately if a breach occurs, significantly reducing your data’s vulnerability.
Phishing tactics are evolving rapidly, accelerated by AI advancements. The best defense is continuous education and awareness within your team. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and protect your business.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do phishing attacks increase in August?
Phishing attacks tend to rise in August due to the end of summer vacations and the start of the back-to-school season. Cybercriminals exploit this time by creating deceptive emails that impersonate trusted sources, such as educational institutions and travel services, taking advantage of people’s distracted states as they return to work.
What are common signs of a phishing email?
Common signs of phishing emails include spelling errors, awkward wording, and suspicious email addresses. Additionally, look for unusual links or requests for personal information that seem out of the ordinary. Always confirm the sender’s email and hover over links to verify their legitimacy before clicking.
How can I protect my business from phishing attacks?
To protect your business, educate your team about identifying phishing attempts and implement safety measures like scrutinizing suspicious emails and verifying URLs. Utilizing multifactor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security, and consulting with an IT service provider can help implement effective endpoint security solutions to monitor and block potential threats.
What should I do if I suspect a phishing attempt?
If you suspect a phishing attempt, do not click any links or respond to the email. Instead, report it to your IT department or managed service provider for investigation. They can help determine if it’s a threat and advise on the next steps to secure your systems.
