While you and your team may be returning from vacation, cybercriminals never take a break. Research from ProofPoint and Check Point reveals a surge in phishing attacks during summer months. Here's how you can stay vigilant and safeguard your business.
Why Are Summer Months Riskier?
Cyber attackers exploit the summer travel season by mimicking hotel and Airbnb sites, according to Check Point Research. They reported a 55% rise in new vacation-related website domains in May 2025 compared to last year, with over 39,000 domains registered—1 in 21 flagged as malicious or suspicious.
Additionally, the back-to-school period triggers a spike in phishing emails impersonating legitimate university communications aimed at students and staff. Even if your sector isn't directly targeted, employees checking personal emails on work devices can inadvertently expose your company to cyber threats.
How to Protect Your Business
Although AI enhances cybersecurity and streamlines operations, it also enables more convincing phishing scams. Training yourself and your team to recognize warning signs is crucial to avoid falling victim.
Essential Safety Tips:
· Stay alert for suspicious emails. Don’t rely solely on spotting misspellings or poor grammar—AI can generate polished messages. Verify the sender's email address and scrutinize visible links carefully.
· Verify URLs thoroughly. Watch for typos or unusual domain extensions like .today or .info, often used by scam sites.
· Access websites directly. Instead of clicking links in emails, manually type the website address or use a trusted search engine.
· Activate Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra security layer, protecting your login credentials and sensitive data even if a breach occurs.
· Use caution on public WiFi. When accessing sensitive information over public networks, always use a VPN for enhanced security.
· Keep personal emails off company devices. Mixing personal and work accounts on the same device increases risk. Use separate devices for personal and business activities.
· Consult your MSP about endpoint security. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools monitor devices, block phishing attempts, and alert your MSP instantly in case of breaches, minimizing data exposure.
Phishing attacks are evolving rapidly, fueled by AI advancements. The best defense is a well-informed team. Stay educated, stay alert, and keep your business secure.
Kick off the season with confidence—click here or call us at 816-256-2595 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today.
