8 out of 10 phishing attacks impersonate Microsoft, Apple, or Google

• Microsoft, Apple, and Google’s images were used in 8 out of 10 phishing attacks
• The technology industry remains the most frequently impersonated sector by cybercriminals, followed by social networks and the banking sector.
• In recent weeks, cybercriminals have also prepared a series of websites impersonating the security center of the WhatsApp messenger.

The image of Microsoft, Apple, and Google were used in 8 out of 10 phishing attacks in the third quarter of the year – reports Check Point Research, adding that cybercriminals still most often impersonate technology brands and social networks. Experts emphasize that users should exercise particular caution when disclosing their personal data, regardless of the situation.

The report prepared by Check Point Research sheds light on the brands most often imitated by cybercriminals in attempts to extract personal data or payment information. In the third quarter of 2024, Microsoft remained the most frequently impersonated brand. The Redmond company’s image was present in 61% of all phishing attempts. Apple maintained its second position with a score of 12%, while Google climbed to the third place with 7%.

It’s also worth noting Alibaba’s entry into the top 10. The Chinese shopping giant ranked seventh. Adobe (8th place) also returned to the top ten for the first time since the second quarter of 2022. The technology sector remains the most frequently impersonated by cybercriminals, followed by social networks and the banking sector.

– The ubiquity of phishing attacks highlights the need to increase awareness and apply safety measures. Users need to be vigilant, verify the sources of emails, avoid suspicious links, and use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to protect their personal and financial data from cyber threats. – notes Omer Dembinsky, Data Group Manager at Check Point Software.

Most often used brands in attacks in Q3 2024:

1. Microsoft – 61%
2. Apple – 12%
3. Google – 7%
4. Facebook – 3%
5. WhatsApp – 1.2%
6. Amazon – 1.2%
7. Alibaba – 1.1%
8. Adobe – 0.8%
9. Twitter – 0.8%
10. Adidas – 0.6%

Beware of WhatsApp phishing!

A new phishing site, whatsapp-io.com, has been identified as a threat to WhatsApp users. Although it is currently unavailable, the site was designed to resemble the WhatsApp security center, prompting users to submit personal information, including phone number and country of origin, under the pretext of solving alleged account problems. This site is part of a wider trend in which similar domains such as whatsapp-as.com, whatsapp-ia.com, and whatsapp-li.com have been registered and reported.

How to protect yourself from phishing?

In the face of a growing number of phishing attempts targeting well-known brands, it is crucial for users to be aware and proactive regarding online security. It is important to ensure that devices are equipped with up-to-date security software and to be skeptical of unexpected messages.