4 Common Attack Methods Use by Cybercriminals

In today’s world, understanding the different types of cyber attacks isn’t just for IT professionals—it’s essential for everyone. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and even the most seemingly harmless actions (like clicking an email link or sharing basic information on social media) can open the door to a serious breach.

Below, we break down four of the most common cyber attack strategies, what they look like, and how to protect yourself and your organization.

1. Phishing: The Classic Bait-and-Hook

Phishing is one of the most widespread types of cyber attacks. It involves mass emails designed to trick users into sharing sensitive information, like passwords, credit card numbers, or login credentials. These emails are designed to look like they're from trusted sources—such as banks, government entities, or even your own company’s departments—and often feature convincing logos or urgent messaging to prompt quick action.

Why it works:
Phishing emails are often carefully crafted to look legitimate, mimicking real brands and trusted contacts. This sense of familiarity tricks users into letting their guard down—making it more likely they’ll click or share information without thinking.

How to stay safe:

• Don’t click on suspicious links or download unexpected attachments.

• Verify the sender’s address carefully—look for misspellings or suspicious domains.

• Use an email filter and enable spam protection.

2. Spear Phishing: A Targeted Attack

Unlike general phishing, spear phishing is personalized. Attackers research their victims—often via LinkedIn or company websites—and craft tailored emails that appear to come from someone the victim knows or works with. These emails may reference real projects, client names, or company-specific information to make them more believable.

Why it works:
Spear phishing takes advantage of personalization. By including specific details related to the victim’s role or company, these emails feel more relevant and trustworthy, which can lead to lower skepticism and an increased likelihood of falling for the attack.

How to stay safe:

• Be cautious with emails requesting urgent action, even if they appear to come from colleagues.

• Avoid sending money or sharing sensitive information without verifying the request. If it appears to come from your CEO or Payroll department—especially if they’re asking for things like your Social Security number—confirm in person or through a known communication channel before taking action.

3. Executive Whaling: Going After the Big Fish

Executive whaling (or whaling) targets high-level executives like CEOs, CFOs, and administrators. These emails often aim to authorize large financial transactions or gain access to confidential company data. They may spoof a company domain or appear to come from a trusted business partner.

Why it works:
Executives often have access to sensitive systems, and attackers bank on their busy schedules and authority to bypass internal checks.

How to stay safe:

• Implement strict approval processes for financial transactions.

• Require multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all high-level access.

• Conduct regular security training tailored to executives and admins.

4. Social Engineering: Manipulating Human Nature

Social engineering uses psychological tactics to trick people into giving up confidential information or system access. This could include impersonating IT staff, using personal details found on social media, or posing as a trusted vendor. The attacker builds a sense of trust or urgency to bypass rational decision-making.

Why it works:
People tend to trust familiar names or respond quickly under pressure.

How to stay safe:

• Limit the personal information you share publicly.

• Always verify the identity of unexpected contacts, especially if they request sensitive information.

• Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious interactions.

Quick Tips for Cyber Safety

• Stop and think before you click or reply to emails.

• Read the email headers to verify authenticity. Here’s how to do it.

• Analyze suspicious emails using an email filter.

• When in doubt, delete. It’s better to be safe than sorry.