Common Phishing Techniques Used by Scammers & How To Avoid Them

Phishing attacks are everywhere—and they’re getting more sophisticated by the day. In fact, 36% of all data breaches originate from phishing attempts. Cybercriminals exploit human vulnerabilities, preying on trust, curiosity, and even fear to steal sensitive information or plant malware.

The result? Businesses lose money, data, and trust. But here’s the silver lining: you can protect yourself and your organization by understanding common phishing tactics and knowing how to respond.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most prevalent phishing techniques, share practical tips to avoid them, and highlight how TLC’s cybersecurity training can help your team stay one step ahead of scammers.

What Are the Most Common Phishing Techniques?

Phishing isn’t a one-size-fits-all scam. Cybercriminals use a range of tactics to trick their victims, each tailored to exploit specific vulnerabilities. Let’s break down the most common techniques and how you can defend against them:

Spear Phishing

Spear phishing is highly targeted. Scammers customize their emails to specific individuals, using personal details to make their messages seem authentic. For example, an attacker might reference your recent work project or include your name and job title to build credibility.

How to Avoid It

• Be cautious of unsolicited requests for sensitive information, no matter how personalized they seem.
• Always verify requests by contacting the sender through a trusted channel.

Vishing (Voice Phishing)

Unlike email-based attacks, vishing happens over the phone. Scammers pose as representatives from banks, government agencies, or tech support, pressuring you to reveal personal details or transfer money.

How to Avoid It

• Avoid sharing sensitive information over the phone unless you initiate the call.
• Hang up and call the organization directly using a verified phone number to confirm the legitimacy of the request.

Smishing (SMS Phishing)

Smishing involves sending fraudulent text messages to trick recipients into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information. These texts often mimic legitimate organizations, warning about account issues or claiming you’ve won a prize.

How to Avoid It

• Don’t click links in unsolicited texts, especially if they seem urgent or too good to be true.
• Verify the message by contacting the organization through its official website or customer service.

Whaling

Whaling takes spear phishing to the next level, targeting high-level executives such as CEOs or CFOs. These attacks often involve fraudulent requests for large financial transfers or sensitive data, exploiting the authority and access of top-level staff.

How to Avoid It

• Train executives to recognize phishing attempts and understand their unique risks.
• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) and require verbal confirmation for high-value transactions.

Clone Phishing

In this technique, scammers replicate a legitimate email you’ve received before, replacing the original links or attachments with malicious ones. For instance, a cloned shipping confirmation email may lead to a fake tracking page designed to steal your login credentials.

How to Avoid It

• Check the sender’s email address for subtle variations (e.g., “@company1.com” instead of “@company.com”).
• Hover over links before clicking to verify the destination URL.

SEO Poisoning

Cybercriminals manipulate search engine results to make malicious websites appear at the top. These fake pages might mimic trusted brands, luring you to input sensitive information like login credentials or payment details.

How to Avoid It

• Be cautious when clicking on ads or unfamiliar links in search results.
• Double-check URLs and ensure you’re visiting the official website of a company or service.

Business Email Compromise (BEC)

BEC, also known as CEO fraud, involves impersonating an executive via email to trick employees into performing unauthorized actions, such as transferring money or sharing confidential information.

How to Avoid It

• Implement a separation of duties for high-risk actions like payments or data sharing.
• Require verbal confirmation for sensitive requests, especially those involving large sums of money.

Spam

Spam includes mass-distributed emails filled with malicious links, fake offers, or alarming messages designed to steal sensitive information. These emails often bypass basic filters and land directly in your inbox.

How to Avoid It

• Use advanced email filtering solutions to block spam.
• Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown senders.

How to Protect Against Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks may be sophisticated, but with the right tools and strategies, you can significantly reduce the risks. Here are some effective measures to protect yourself and your organization:

1. Employee Education

Phishing attacks exploit human vulnerabilities. Teaching employees to recognize and respond to these threats is your first line of defense.

• Provide regular training on identifying phishing emails, fake websites, and social engineering tactics.
• Conduct simulated phishing exercises to test and reinforce employees' skills.

2. Email Security Tools

Automated tools can help detect and block phishing emails before they reach employees’ inboxes.

• Use advanced spam filters and email scanning solutions to identify suspicious content.
• Enable automated alerts for emails with malicious attachments or links.

3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Phishers often aim to steal login credentials. MFA adds an extra layer of security to protect accounts.

• Require a second form of verification, such as a one-time code sent to a mobile device.
• Even if credentials are compromised, MFA makes it harder for attackers to gain access.

4. Separation of Duties

Scammers often target employees responsible for financial transactions or sensitive data. Dividing responsibilities can minimize risk.

• Require multiple approvals for high-value financial transactions.
• Assign sensitive data management tasks to separate individuals or teams.

5. Endpoint Security

Phishing attacks frequently deliver malware to devices. Endpoint security tools can detect and block these threats.

• Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on all company devices.
• Ensure that devices are regularly updated with the latest security patches.

By combining these strategies, you can create a strong defense against phishing attacks, reducing the chances of falling victim to scammers.

TLC Cybersecurity Training: Your First Line of Defense

Phishing attacks thrive on a lack of awareness, but with proper training, your employees can become your strongest defense. TLC’s cybersecurity training programs are designed to empower teams with the knowledge and skills to combat phishing and other cyber threats effectively.

What TLC’s Training Includes

• Phishing and Scam Awareness: Learn to identify and respond to phishing emails, calls, and messages.
• Incident Reporting: Ensure employees know how to report potential threats promptly and effectively.
• Safe Remote Working Practices: Equip remote workers with strategies to secure their home networks and devices.
• Password Management: Promote the use of strong, unique passwords and highlight the importance of password security.
• Handling Sensitive Data: Train employees on best practices for protecting sensitive information.
• Updates on the Latest Threats: Stay ahead of evolving cyber threats with regular updates and countermeasures.

With TLC’s comprehensive training, you’re not just educating your team—you’re building a proactive culture of cybersecurity awareness.

The Bottom Line

Phishing may be one of the oldest tricks in the cybercriminal playbook, but it’s still alarmingly effective. From spear phishing and vishing to smishing and BEC attacks, scammers are constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. 

The good news? You can protect yourself and your organization with awareness, strategic tools, and proper training. Contact TLC today to learn how our cybersecurity training programs can empower your team to recognize and thwart phishing attempts before they cause harm.