August 18, 2025
While you and your team might be returning from vacation, cybercriminals remain relentlessly active. Research from trusted sources like ProofPoint and Check Point reveals a surge in phishing attacks during summer months. Discover how to stay vigilant and protect your business effectively.
Why Are Cyber Threats Rising in Summer?
Cyber attackers exploit the summer travel season by masquerading as hotel and Airbnb sites, according to Check Point Research. They've identified a 55% rise in new vacation-related website domains registered in May 2025 compared to last year. Out of more than 39,000 domains, approximately 1 in 21 were flagged as suspicious or malicious.
Additionally, the back-to-school period triggers a spike in phishing scams impersonating legitimate university emails, targeting students and staff alike. Even if your industry isn't directly affected, employees checking personal emails on work devices during this time can inadvertently expose your company to cyber threats with just one wrong click.
How to Safeguard Your Business
With AI enhancing both cybersecurity and phishing tactics, it's crucial to educate yourself and your team on spotting threats to avoid falling victim.
Follow these essential safety tips to minimize risk:
• Vigilantly scrutinize suspicious emails. Beyond checking for spelling errors or awkward formatting—since AI can craft convincing messages—inspect sender addresses and visible link texts carefully to verify authenticity.
• Verify URLs thoroughly. Be alert to misspelled links or unusual domain extensions like .today or .info, which are commonly used by scammers.
• Access websites directly. Instead of clicking on email links, manually type the website address or use a trusted search engine to avoid phishing traps.
• Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds a critical security layer, protecting your login credentials and sensitive data even if a breach occurs.
• Exercise caution with public WiFi. Use a VPN when accessing sensitive information on public networks to safeguard your data.
• Avoid checking personal emails on work devices. Keeping personal accounts separate from business devices reduces the risk of cross-contamination from phishing attacks.
• Consult your MSP about endpoint security. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools monitor devices, block phishing attempts, and alert your managed service provider immediately to contain threats swiftly.
Phishing techniques are evolving rapidly, fueled by AI advancements. The most effective defense is a well-informed team. Stay educated, stay alert, and protect your business.
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