When most people think of phishing, email-based attacks likely come to mind. However, attackers are continuously evolving their strategies, targeting new platforms and leveraging innovative tactics to catch users off guard. Let’s explore some of the most overlooked phishing techniques making waves today.

1. SEO Poisoning

Scammers are exploiting search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure their phishing websites rank high in search results. For instance, searching for terms like “download Photoshop” or “PayPal account” may lead users to malicious lookalike sites designed to steal credentials or spread malware.

An alarming variant involves hijacking Google Business listings, replacing legitimate contact details with fraudulent ones to trick victims into interacting with attackers posing as authorized representatives.

2. Paid Ad Scams

Malicious advertising, or malvertising, is another tactic on the rise. Cybercriminals use paid ads on search engines, social media, and websites to direct users to harmful content. These ads may lead to phishing websites, download malware-laden applications, or even embed trojans within the advertisements themselves.

3. Social Media Phishing

Social media platforms have become a prime hunting ground for attackers. They:

• Create fake profiles mimicking trusted individuals, celebrities, or companies to gain user trust.
• Post malicious links in comments or direct messages.
• Distribute fraudulent apps disguised as games, surveys, or investment tools to collect sensitive information.
• Use deepfake videos to spread disinformation or scam users.

4. QR Code Phishing (Quishing)

With the rise of contactless technology, QR codes have become a new frontier for phishing. Scammers place malicious QR codes on menus, posters, flyers, and even parking meters, tricking users into scanning them. These codes often lead to phishing websites or unauthorized payment portals.

In the past year alone, quishing attacks have surged by 587%, underscoring the urgency of addressing this threat.

5. Mobile App Phishing

Attackers upload malicious apps to legitimate app stores, waiting for users to download and interact with them. These apps may:

• Mimic trusted applications to steal credentials or financial information.
• Contain spyware for unauthorized surveillance.

Researchers recently discovered over 90 malicious apps on Google Play, collectively downloaded 5.5 million times.

6. Call Back Phishing

Call back phishing involves attackers tricking victims into contacting fraudulent call centers. While emails are a common starting point, attackers are also using:

• Google Forms to bypass phishing filters.
• SMS messages with fake instructions.
• Voicemails urging recipients to call back.

Once the victim calls, scammers manipulate them into providing sensitive information or making fraudulent payments.

7. Cloud-Based Phishing

As cloud services like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Google Drive become integral to business operations, attackers are exploiting these platforms. Common tactics include:

• Sending phishing messages within trusted cloud environments.
• Hosting malicious websites on cloud storage services like Amazon or IBM.
• Abusing tools like Microsoft Sway or Google Drawings to deliver phishing links or QR codes.

8. Content Injection Attacks

Exploiting vulnerabilities in software, websites, or IoT devices, attackers can inject malicious content to manipulate users. For example:

• Editing a website’s “Contact Us” page to redirect users to harmful downloads or fake help desks.
• Using compromised IoT devices to send phishing notifications to unsuspecting users.

These attacks demonstrate how even trusted platforms can become tools for exploitation if not secured properly.

The Role of AI in Phishing Evolution

The integration of AI tools into phishing campaigns is making attacks more sophisticated and convincing. From crafting personalized phishing messages to generating realistic deepfake videos, attackers are continuously raising the stakes.

Building Resilience Against Modern Phishing

Combatting these emerging threats requires a proactive approach. Organizations can:

• Educate Employees: Provide ongoing security training to recognize and avoid phishing scams.
• Promote Vigilance: Encourage users to verify links, QR codes, and app sources before engaging.
• Strengthen Security Measures: Use advanced threat detection tools to identify and block malicious activities.

By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and leveraging the right tools, organizations can protect their employees, assets, and reputation from these evolving threats.

Ready to bolster your defenses against modern phishing techniques? Cyber Safe Business is here to help.

👉 Contact us today to learn how to safeguard your organization from the ever-changing tactics of cybercriminals.