Data breaches happen when criminals bypass network security measures and steal data that should remain private. When that happens, they can sell the data on the Dark Web or use it in identity theft attacks or targeted phishing campaigns.

Unfortunately, mitigating data breaches is far from simple. Attackers have many weapons, from phishing and ransomware to exploits, SQL injection, and insider threats. Every attack technique demands a response, as one loose end can leave an entire network exposed.

This article will introduce the critical types of data breaches and mitigation measures to secure your data.

Key takeaways

• Data breaches are extremely costly. The average data breach costs $4.88 million, while reputational harm can be permanent. Mitigation measures are critically important.
• Phishing is the most common data breach type. Phishers rely on human error and lack of knowledge to encourage unsafe behavior. Dark web scanning and employee training are effective responses.
• Ransomware locks data and devices, enabling data theft by attackers. Companies need robust malware protection to avoid infection. File scanning is an essential mitigation measure.
• Insider threats and physical theft can also expose data. Encrypt sensitive data to counter thieves and monitor user activity to detect malicious insiders.
• Other data breach causes include SQL injection, man-in-the-middle attacks, supply chain attacks, cloud misconfiguration, and weak passwords. Each attack requires attention and mitigation actions.
• Specialist data security tools can help you avoid costly breaches. Implement dark web scans to detect compromised data and use business VPNs to block infiltrators.

Phishing attacks: The most common type of data breach

Phishers use persuasion and deception to obtain confidential information from their victims, and they often succeed. According to Verizon’s 2024 Data Breach Report, 68% of data breaches start with human error.

All organizations are vulnerable to social engineering attacks. If your employees use email and share information online, phishing is a critical data breach risk.

The most common form of phishing involves using fake emails that resemble messages from trusted sources. Recipients download malware-infected attachments, which harvest data from their devices. Alternatively, they might click links to fake websites where phony data entry forms request sensitive data.

However, email phishing is not the only variety. Phishers might use SMS messages, phone calls, or video messages (vishing) to achieve their aims.

Whatever method attackers use, the outcome is similar. Victims unwittingly provide personal details, financial information, or login credentials. Criminals use that data to launch identity theft attacks or steal data after accessing private network assets.

Detecting phished credentials before attackers use them

Phishers are challenging adversaries, but companies can strengthen their defenses with dark web scanning.

Criminals use underground marketplaces on the Dark Web to sell stolen credentials and personal information. Criminal groups then use that data in targeted attacks, including large-scale data theft.

Dark web scanners monitor underground marketplaces and provide early warnings about data theft. Victims learn rapidly if their credentials are available for sale. This creates a critical window to reset passwords and secure user accounts before data breaches arise.

We recommend working with expert partners to track your data on the Dark Web. A Dark Web scan for leaked emails and credentials can identify risks and give you time to block phishing attacks.

In addition to dark web scanning, organizations must arrange employee training so employees can understand phishing risks. Most phishing attacks succeed due to human error. Regular training exercises refresh employee knowledge and help users identify risky attachments or links.

Ransomware cyber-attacks

Ransomware is malicious software that locks devices and encrypts data until victims pay a ransom.

Early ransomware attacks focused on financial gain, but this is changing. Attackers routinely steal data if the ransom is not paid. However, data loss is still possible when victims pay in full. The bottom line is that ransomware attacks always put customer data at risk.

For example, the US health company Change Healthcare suffered a ransomware attack in early 2024 by the ALPHV/Blackcat group. Attackers did not just extract a $22 million ransom payment; they stole 4TB of patient data in a so-called “exit scam.”

In total, around 190 million individuals were affected by a single malware infection. Companies need robust defensive measures to secure data and prevent similar incidents.

Reducing ransomware risk with automated malware detection

Best practices to prevent malware attacks include using up-to-date intrusion detection systems and malware scanners. Companies should encrypt confidential information and train staff to avoid phishing emails.

However, it pays to adopt a defense-in-depth with download protection. Companies rely on file transfers from internal and external sources. Any file could carry ransomware agents, making accurate file scanning essential across all devices and endpoints.

Scanning tools ensure malware protection by allowing harmless traffic and identifying high-risk files. A focused approach avoids false alarms, allowing security teams to concentrate on critical ransomware risks.

Insider threats

Insider threats come from individuals or groups inside your organization or partner companies. These data breach threats are hard to detect. Insiders tend to possess legitimate credentials and have high trust levels. If they choose to extract and sell data, security teams may not know until it is too late.

There are two main types of insider threats. The most common variety is accidental data exposure via human error. For instance. employees may expose personal records in public places or share data with outsiders.

Deliberate data theft is less common but potentially more destructive. Unhappy employees with access to business databases could extract client data for sale to competitors or sell the information to criminal collectives.

Businesses must guard against both insider threat types to fine-tune their data breach strategy. Effective security measures include:

• Using Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools. DLP monitors the status of critical data, logging access patterns and user actions. These tools can prevent unsafe transfers or request additional credentials to protect sensitive data.
• Training employees. Staff need to know what data exposure means and how to safely handle information.
• Managing privileges. Apply the principle of least privilege to limit access to data, and remove network access immediately when staff leave the organization.

Third-party breaches

Anyone with legitimate credentials can launch data theft attacks. This includes trusted third parties, who are often subject to supply chain attacks.

For example, the 2019 SolarWinds attack injected the Orion performance monitoring software with malware. When SolarWinds distributed Orion updates, the malicious code executed, exposing the data of 18,000 customers.

Attackers effectively turn third-party tools into backdoors. Until the supplier patches the vulnerability, criminals can extract data from compromised customers. In the SolarWinds case, hackers lurked for months on client networks, monitoring activity and stealing sensitive information.

Defending against third-party risks is tough. However, companies can manage risks with robust third-party security assessments, limiting vendor privileges, and integrating supply chain attacks into incident response plans.

Weak passwords

User credentials are a critical vulnerability when preventing data breaches. Breaches often happen when employees reuse the same password or rely on similar passwords for each account. In these cases, unauthorized individuals gain access by guessing access credentials—often based on stolen data.

However, criminals don’t need prior knowledge of user behavior. They can use brute force attacks to guess passwords. Alternatively, they might use phishing techniques to persuade users to enter their passwords into fake login portals.

There are many ways to work around password and user name login systems. Moreover, successful attackers appear trustworthy, creating a window of opportunity to extract sensitive information.

Robust network security measures are essential. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for network access, which requires strong, regularly changed passwords. Threat detection systems should also monitor endpoints to detect multiple failed logins, which are often the signature of credential-stuffing attacks.

Unpatched vulnerabilities lead to preventable data breaches

Unpatched software and outdated systems are tempting targets for data thieves. The 2024 Verizon Data Breach Report found that exploits account for 14% of known data breaches. However, while that number sounds low, exploit attacks rose 180% in the previous year. As Verizon puts it, we are experiencing an “exploitation boom.”

The Equifax data breach shows how damaging exploits can be. In 2017, the credit rating giant suffered one of history’s largest breaches following an attack on outdated Apache Struts 2 servers. A simple vulnerability led to massive data breach costs, including a $425 million settlement and free credit monitoring for 150 million victims of the breach.

Keep confidential data safe by implementing a proactive patch management strategy. Automate patch delivery where possible, and audit updates to ensure internet-facing apps and devices are current. Threat intelligence can also help by alerting security teams to emerging exploits.

Cloud misconfigurations and data security failures

In today’s digital economy, about 60% of corporate data resides in the cloud. This makes cloud platforms common targets for data thieves. It also means that companies need secure cloud configurations to block unauthorized access.

For example, cloud storage buckets containing confidential information should never be directly accessible from the public internet. Encryption and segmentation should separate sensitive data from external actors, with robust access controls. However, misconfigurations can leave data buckets exposed.

Companies may secure data but forget about access management tools—making it easy to gain access and move between cloud resources. Sometimes, IT teams don’t remove obsolete cloud deployments, raising exploit risks.

Cloud security is vital. Implement MFA and attribute-based identity verification to block threat actors. Ensure critical data remains secure and isolated from the public internet, and encrypt data in transit and at rest on cloud platforms.

Physical device theft

All of the talk about exploits and ransomware attacks can be deceptive. While digital data breaches are common, physical security breaches are just as important. Companies can’t focus all of their energy on cybersecurity and forget about physical devices.

Physical data breaches involve unauthorized individuals gaining access to private network devices. Criminals might break into data centers or offices and steal devices or access applications on-site. However, data theft can also happen when employees lose work laptops or smartphones in public places.

This type of attack is common in the healthcare sector. In 2018, thieves stole the laptop of a Coplin Health Systems employee from their automobile. The device was not encrypted, allowing attackers to harvest data from 43,000 patients.

Nothing had changed by 2024, when criminals stole a TimeDoc employee’s laptop on public transport. While the device was password-protected, patient data was not encrypted.

What can you do to avoid similar incidents? Take robust security measures regarding using laptops outside work. Encrypt all sensitive data and require 2FA or MFA for work devices. That way, thieves usually won’t be able to access and sell client data.

SQL injection

SQL injection attacks target website code, allowing criminals to access application backends and confidential databases.

These types of data breaches rely on poor code management and data entry forms that fail to sanitize user inputs. Instead of blocking malicious SQL queries, forms allow attackers to bypass authentication processes or even retrieve all user records.

For example, in 2023 the ResumeLooters collective mounted SQL attacks on 65 employment websites, looting data for sale on Chinese Telegram groups. Both Sony and Marriott Hotels have also fallen victim to SQL injection in recent years, suffering significant data breaches.

Avoid similar breaches by improving your data security practices. Filter database inputs and separate databases from initial login portals. Ensure you sanitize every query to identify malicious inputs, and audit code regularly to ensure ongoing protection.

Man-in-the-Middle attacks

Our final cause of data breaches places attackers between victims and internet resources. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks intercept traffic without the victim’s knowledge, allowing them to monitor data transfers and conversations.

Attackers can track online activity, or use keyloggers to harvest login credentials and credit card numbers. They can also redirect users to fake websites that resemble trusted originals but actually contain malicious data entry forms.

MITM attacks are commonly associated with remote work. Attackers create fake Wi-Fi hotspots that seem legitimate and linked to an actual location. Connecting to these hotspots allows attackers to seize control, compromising data transfers from remote devices.

Cut Man-in-the-Middle attack risks with VPN protection

The good news about Man-in-the-Middle attacks is that encryption makes them much less effective. Attackers cannot easily understand encrypted traffic and tend to move on to other targets.

We advise using a Business VPN to encrypt web traffic at all times. Business VPNs encrypt traffic on cloud platforms and on-premises networks, while also protecting remote connections. This significantly cuts the risk of eavesdroppers using MitM techniques.

You can also strengthen security measures with Always On VPN functionality. This feature applies VPN coverage to all internet connections and cuts connectivity if the VPN drops. There are no vulnerable moments. Encryption applies consistently, across all network devices.

The real impact and cost of a data breach

The list above shows there are many ways to carry out data breaches. But what are the real-world costs of these techniques, and do they justify investing in advanced security measures? In our opinion, the stats below prove that the benefits of security easily outweigh the financial costs:

• The average cost of a data breach in 2024 was $4.88 million—up 10% from 2023 [IBM]
• In 2025, the average cost of an insider threat attack is $17.4 million, up from $16.2 million in 2023 [Ponemon]
• Exploit attacks increased by 180% from 2023-2024 [Verizon]
• Companies suffering data breaches see their sales growth fall by 3.2% and lose 1.1% of their market value [NBER]
• 60% of consumers won’t do business with companies that suffer data breaches [Chain Store Age]

How NordLayer can help with data breach prevention

Data is everything in the modern economy, where businesses rise or fall based on their capacity to collect and analyze information. However, as data becomes more valuable, it also becomes a bigger target. Data breach risks require streamlined security solutions.

That’s where NordLayer comes in.

Our Business VPN encrypts network connections, shielding data from eavesdroppers and unauthorized infiltrators—cutting Man-in-the-Middle attack risks. Meanwhile, dark web scanning tools check underground marketplaces for compromised data, enabling proactive strategies before attacks occur.

NordLayer also helps defend against phishing and malware threats. DNS filtering tools block access to malicious websites, while Download Protection detects and prevents accidental malware downloads.

To mitigate insider risks, NordLayer enables network segmentation through Cloud Firewall features, which contain potential threats within isolated environments. Zero Trust policies ensure that only authorized users can access sensitive data.

Want to strengthen your data breach defenses? Contact the NordLayer team today. We’ll help you upgrade your data security and keep sensitive information safe.

Organization admins need actionable insights to manage connections, monitor device types, track failed logins, and ensure overall security.

We’re working on that.

With our latest update, we’re improving the Dashboards section in the NordLayer Control Panel. The Shared Gateways usage data chart provides admins with a new, interactive tool for deeper visibility into how their organization uses shared gateways.

Now, admins can monitor shared gateway activity, detect anomalies, and make data-driven decisions to optimize performance and security.

Feature characteristics: What to expect

With this update, the interactive Shared Gateways map is now part of the Dashboards section. It sits alongside other key graphs that display important security and usage metrics.

This new feature includes:

• An interactive map displaying shared gateway locations and usage patterns
• A usage data list showing how many users access each shared gateway
• Predefined filters for quick data views and options to refine results based on specific criteria
• Percentage-based insights comparing a gateway’s usage to other shared gateways within the same organization

Admins using Core, Lite, and Premium plans already benefit from a range of insights that enhance security and network visibility. The Dashboards provide data on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adoption rates, allowing admins to monitor how many users have enabled this critical security measure. It also includes a device OS distribution breakdown, helping identify potential security risks associated with unsupported operating systems.

Additionally, the Dashboards track NordLayer application versions in use, ensuring admins can detect and address outdated software that may pose vulnerabilities. Lastly, browser type analytics offer insight into how users access secured resources via the NordLayer extension, contributing to overall network security.

With the introduction of the Shared Gateways usage data chart, admins now gain a more complete picture of their organization’s network activity. This latest addition provides detailed visibility into shared gateway usage, allowing for smarter decision-making in both security and performance management.

How it works: Shared Gateway usage data in action

The Shared Gateways usage data chart is designed to be intuitive, interactive, and visually engaging, allowing admins to quickly grasp key network trends.

• The interactive map visually represents the distribution of shared gateways and their usage rates
• The percentage-based comparison ensures admins can see which gateways are most popular in relation to others
• The filtering options enable refined analysis based on location and time periods

This feature is not just about visibility—it helps detect security anomalies, such as unexpected spikes in activity to unfamiliar locations, which may indicate unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, geographic insights support performance optimization, allowing businesses to strategically plan their network infrastructure.

Why do dashboards matter?

With deeper, nearly real-time insights, admins can now make faster, smarter decisions regarding security and network management. Key benefits of the updated Dashboards with Shared Gateways usage data chart:

• Improved visibility – Monitor shared gateway usage and identify popular access points
• Enhanced security – Detect unusual access patterns that may indicate potential threats
• Regulatory compliance – Maintain audit logs for compliance with security regulations
• Optimized network performance – Use geographic insights to better manage shared gateway resources

Conclusion

With this latest Dashboards upgrade, NordLayer empowers admins with the tools they need to strengthen security, optimize resources, and gain deeper insights into shared gateway usage.

The Shared Gateways usage data chart is rolling out to all plans in March 2025.

Explore the updated Dashboards today and take control of your organization’s security.

Bring-your-own-device programs have grown fast in recent years. A 2022 survey showed that over 60% of organizations allow personal devices for work tasks.

This trend highlights the many benefits of BYOD. Workers stay productive on mobile devices they already know. Companies reduce hardware expenses and expand remote work options.

Still, BYOD security issues are on the rise. Experts warn of data theft, malware infections, and other risks. These dangers of BYOD can disrupt operations and leak sensitive data. Security measures are essential when users connect BYOD devices to a company network.

Below, we look at 12 BYOD security risks and show how to mitigate them. We also share how NordLayer supports secure bring your own device initiatives with modern tools.

What does BYOD mean for modern security?

BYOD means employees use personal devices for work tasks. These devices might be smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Many companies find that this flexibility improves morale and cuts costs. Yet the convenience also brings security threats.

When people use their own hardware, administrators lose some control. Different operating systems and software versions complicate oversight.

Without a strong BYOD security policy, BYOD vulnerabilities grow. BYOD cybersecurity threats can include malicious apps, outdated software, and easy entry points for attackers. The result can be serious data loss or system disruptions.

Robust mobile device management is critical to avoid major BYOD attacks. IT teams must adopt device security tools, enforce security measures, and monitor network access. Without those steps, the risks of BYOD can quickly outweigh its benefits.

Main BYOD security risks and how to mitigate them

Effective BYOD security starts with understanding common risks employees face daily. Companies often overlook simple issues like weak passwords, making data breaches more likely. The following section covers these risks clearly and suggests easy-to-follow strategies for reducing threats. Implementing these steps strengthens your organization’s overall BYOD security.

1. Weak passwords

Weak credentials present a huge problem. Microsoft identified 44 million accounts using passwords leaked in prior breaches​. Personal and corporate data become easy targets when employees reuse simple passphrases.

Solution: Enforcing strong password policies (length, complexity, non-reuse) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) dramatically lowers risk: according to one report, MFA can block over 99.9% of account compromise attacks.

Use MFA for all logins. Require complex passwords of at least 12 characters. Encourage passphrases instead of short strings and try to use cybersecurity tools with integrated password managers.

2. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks

Open hotspots let attackers spy on private sessions. BYOD users often connect to coffee shop or airport Wi-Fi. Security risks skyrocket when employees using public Wi-Fi handle sensitive data on unprotected networks.

Solution: Train staff to avoid connecting to unknown or open Wi-Fi without protection. Encrypt internet connections using a secure VPN. This protects personal devices and helps reduce BYOD threats and vulnerabilities tied to unsafe networks.

3. Outdated operating systems

Old software invites security threats. Many personal device owners skip updates or disable auto-patching. Attackers exploit these gaps to launch BYOD attacks that target known flaws.

Solution: Push frequent updates across all BYOD devices. Enable automatic installs for operating systems, apps, and drivers. An enterprise browser can offer centralized control. Also, NordLayer’s Device Posture Security helps ensure compliance by restricting network access for devices that miss patches. This prevents out-of-date systems from weakening the organization’s defenses.

4. Malicious apps

Employees install apps for fun, productivity, or convenience. Some mobile apps harbor hidden malware. These malicious apps can harvest corporate data or disrupt device security.

Solution: Use mobile device management tools to monitor installed apps. Block high-risk apps and encourage staff to download from trusted sources. It will help reduce BYOD security risks by catching harmful software quickly.

5. Weak access controls

Weak role management grants users more privileges than they need. This raises the likelihood of accidental company data theft. If attackers seize one account, they may roam across systems containing sensitive data.

Solution: Adopt Zero-Trust principles. Segment company data and restrict resource access. Cloud firewalls allow granular permission control, which seals off critical assets. They help limit lateral movement and reduce the impact of compromised credentials.

6. Data leaks from personal storage

Workers often save company data on personal devices. Some even sync files to personal cloud storage without encryption. These habits expose BYOD security threats and heighten security concerns.

Solution: Enforce encryption of all work files stored on personal devices. Provide secure containers for personal and corporate data. Pair your cybersecurity tool with data loss prevention (DLP) software to protect data at rest and in transit. This step lowers the risk of data loss on unregulated storage sites.

7. Lost or stolen devices

Device theft is a growing concern. More than 70 million mobile devices are lost or stolen each year worldwide. This can lead to unauthorized access if the phone holds unencrypted work data.

The loss of a BYOD device can expose any data stored on it, as well as provide a potential “way in” for attackers if the device isn’t secured. A famous example is the Lifespan Health System in the U.S. which was fined $1.04 million after an unencrypted stolen laptop led to a breach of over 20,000 patients’ data.

Solution: Activate remote wipe features and strong passcode locks. Mandate immediate reporting of missing devices to IT. Quick actions can prevent major company data loss in these scenarios.

8. Shadow IT

Shadow IT arises when employees use unapproved tools or services. This might include personal messaging apps or unknown file-sharing platforms. Such unregulated usage adds security issues with BYOD and creates hidden vulnerabilities.

Solution: Create a clear BYOD security policy that addresses software usage. Educate staff about the dangers of unvetted platforms. Using an enterprise browser can also help by blocking unknown tools. Early detection keeps shadow IT from spiraling into serious BYOD security threats.

9. Social engineering attacks

Phishing and other social tricks fool people into giving up login details. Attackers often send convincing emails or messages that seem legitimate. The presence of personal devices increases this risk, since users may mix personal and work data.

Solution: Train employees to verify messages and avoid clicking unknown links. Enable spam filters and real-time domain checks. NordLayer helps block known malicious domains to stop such attacks in their tracks. But ongoing user awareness remains essential for mitigating social engineering.

10. Lack of device monitoring

Some organizations fail to track what happens on personal devices. If suspicious activity goes unseen, it can lead to larger security issues with BYOD. Attackers thrive when no one notices unusual file transfers or logins.

Solution: Deploy monitoring tools that watch for anomalies. Review logs for off-hours data transfers and repeated login failures. Many tools offer centralized oversight across multiple endpoints. Quick alerts let IT teams respond before small issues become big incidents.

11. Poor network segmentation

When every device joins the same subnet, BYOD vulnerabilities expand. One compromised device might endanger the entire corporate data set. This setup can make BYOD security threats harder to contain.

Solution: Segment networks based on role and device type. Isolate guest networks from core servers. NordLayer’s network protection platform supports micro-segmentation. This reduces the impact of a single compromised device by limiting lateral movement.

12. Incomplete offboarding

Employees may leave without losing access to corporate systems. Their accounts stay active on personal devices long after their last day. This creates ongoing BYOD security concerns, even after roles change.

For example, a former Cisco engineer has admitted to illegally accessing Cisco’s network and wiping 456 virtual machines as well as causing disruption to over 16,000 Webex Teams accounts. US prosecutors say that the tech giant needed to pay $1.4 million in additional employee time to restore and rectify the damage caused to the system, as well as issue refunds of approximately $1 million to customers impacted by the network issues.

Solution: Implement strict offboarding protocols. Revoke credentials, disable accounts, and wipe relevant apps on departure. NordLayer simplifies user management from a single dashboard. This cuts the risk of lingering access and potential data theft down the road.

Securing BYOD with NordLayer

BYOD boosts flexibility but increases security risks. NordLayer protects both personal and company devices, ensuring safe access.

Our network protection platform combines internet security, network access control, and secure connections. Your network stays safe, no matter where employees work.

Business VPN encrypts traffic and supports shared or private gateways with dedicated IPs. With 30+ global locations, teams get fast, secure access.

The platform also helps block malicious sites, risky downloads, and unwanted traffic while keeping data encrypted in transit at all times.

With Zero Trust access controls, only verified users and devices can connect. Security policies ensure only compliant devices access company resources.

NordLayer’s Enterprise Browser will add extra protection for SaaS and web apps. It blocks malicious redirects, restricts user input, and enforces security policies. It supports both managed and unmanaged (BYOD) devices, ensuring only trusted users access sensitive resources.

NordLayer’s tools make BYOD safer, but security requires regular updates, security testing, and strong authentication. Combine VPN, ZTNA, and the Enterprise Browser, and embrace BYOD with less security risks.

Businesses rely on emails to run teams smoothly, communicate with customers, and keep managers in the loop. But what if emails go rogue? Could the next email you open infect your network with ransomware or spyware agents?

Sadly, the answer is yes. A single email can compromise an entire business network. Clicking attachments or following fake links can lead to identity theft attacks, malware infestations, data loss, and, eventually, financial damage.

Email security is a critical concern for every business. Let’s cut through the myths surrounding email phishing attacks. This article will explain everything you need to know and suggest relevant security responses.

The hidden threats linked to malicious emails

Countering email security threats demands a calm, methodical approach. Threat management starts with understanding how opening a phishing email can affect your network.

Previously, companies could easily suffer malware infection by opening a suspicious email. Mail clients lacked protection against Javascript attacks, allowing criminals to access user devices directly.

Fortunately, today’s webmail systems are more robust. It’s hard to acquire an email virus simply by opening a message. Virus scanners screen incoming mail before users click, flagging potential threats and avoiding one-click infections.

The bad news is that email security has gone underground. Attackers use subtle methods to persuade users to take risky actions. And they often succeed. Criminals could conceal a malicious payload inside a seemingly innocent email attachment. Or they could redirect readers to unprotected websites.

That’s why we call attachments “hidden threats.” Criminals use deception to create false trust. Targets need to remain vigilant and question every email they receive. Understanding what to look for is critically important.

The most common types of malicious email attachments

Attackers can attach almost any file type to a phishing email. However, not all file types carry the same threat level. Some are harder to detect than others. Let’s run through some common email phishing attacks and explain how they work.

Executable files: The most dangerous attachments

Executable file extensions like .bat, .exe, .com, and .bin are at the top of the email phishing food chain. They should be your top priority when designing email security strategies.

The reason is that executable files automatically launch code when users open them. There are no intermediate steps or additional user actions. Malware executes, embeds itself on the victim’s device, and starts to spread. The user often does not know that the attack is underway.

Executables also routinely evade email security filters, appearing legitimate to casual readers. But one click can lead to severe security consequences.

Infected documents and PDFs

Office documents (such as docx, doc, .xls, or .xlsx) are also attractive vectors for phishing email attacks, but for a slightly different reason. Attackers can seed documents with malicious scripts or macros.

Normally, macros are tools that save time and automate complex processes. However, criminals can use them to execute malware inside applications.

Using documents has some critical advantages. Spreadsheets, PDFs, or Word files are familiar to office workers. Employees might mistake malicious attachments for client contracts, invoices, or strategic documents.

Attackers also improve their chances of success via urgent language. Emails urge recipients to open the document or risk damaging consequences. That’s all superficial. The real consequences materialize after the malicious macro executes.

PDFs play a similar role. In this case, attackers can seed documents with Javascript scripts. However, PDFs have another benefit: attackers can embed links within the PDF attachment, sending targets to fake websites where criminals harvest personal information.

Hidden malware in compressed files

Compressed file formats include .rar and .zip extensions. We commonly use both formats to transfer large files efficiently, but both file formats can become threat vectors.

Compressed files could hold anything. Without opening the file, recipients have no idea whether the content is legitimate or malicious. Intelligent attackers disguise compressed formats as valuable documents or applications, the kind of files targets may need to open. When they do so, the malware executes automatically.

Archives have another benefit: attackers can add password protection. Password protection blocks antivirus software and suggests to victims that the file is authentic – even if that is far from true.

File extension tricks attackers use

Another thing to remember is that appearances are often deceptive when dealing with email attachments. Attackers can use file masking to disguise the nature of attachments and make identifying them harder.

Images and video files are common examples. Recipients may think the attachment is a standard .jpg image. Clever attackers link the image to the target’s personal or professional life. It could be a real estate portfolio or a product listing – at least on the surface. However, a malicious executable lies beneath the surface.

Why deceptive emails fool even careful employees

There are many ways to deceive targets with a phishing email, from PDFs to camouflaged images. But here’s the critical point: any employee can open a suspicious email or download an attachment they should avoid. Nobody is immune. That’s why phishing is such a persistent security issue.

Phishers play on human nature. They mimic legitimate communications from trusted entities, like banks or corporate partners we deal with daily. They prompt rash actions by using an urgent tone and creating false fears. And they use techniques like spoofing and masking to create a veneer of authenticity.

The most sophisticated phishers take these techniques even further. They research their victims and adopt familiar styles of address. They leverage personal information purchased on the Dark Web to profile targets and fine-tune their email content.

Drive-by downloads heighten risks still further. These downloads occur almost invisibly. Victims visit compromised websites via links that appear innocent. No amount of cybersecurity training can prevent infections that occur in the background, without any initial symptoms.

Email security: Preventing hacks and viruses

Hidden threats and devious phishing attacks may seem intimidating but don’t panic. While you could get hacked by clicking a single email, you probably won’t if you adopt email security best practices.

Adopt a strict policy on opening attachments

Treat all email attachments as suspicious by default unless you have requested the file. This policy applies even to attachments from colleagues or trusted partners.

If you receive an unrequested attachment, don’t open it. Ask the sender for verification that the attachment is genuine and what it contains.

Update your PDF reader

PDF attachments are far more dangerous if your reader is out of date. Attackers leverage exploits in older versions while developers plug security gaps with each iteration. Update your reader regularly, preferably as soon as new versions become available.

If possible, upgrade to more secure PDF software. Sophisticated readers include sandboxing to contain potential threats and file validation to screen for malware.

Patch your browser and email client

The same applies to updating your web browser and email application (if you use one). Any web-facing tool may contain exploits or backdoors for malware infection. Regular updates neutralize recently identified vulnerabilities.

Scan emails for viruses and malware

Don’t rely on security tools provided by email services. Scan every incoming attachment with dependable antivirus software that leverages global threat databases. Robust antivirus defenses defend your network edge when other systems fail. Your wider network should remain safe, even if you click on a dangerous file.

Understand how to identify phishing links

Remember: attachments aren’t the only email security threat. Clicking a phishing link can also lead to malware infection or the exposure of personal information. Training employees to avoid fake websites is critically important.

Fake links tend to have convincing anchor text but deceptive URLs. For instance, URLs contain subtle deviations from legitimate versions. Fake websites also tend to contain errors or factual mistakes (such as false tax numbers).

How can NordLayer help

Companies are not alone when dealing with malicious attachments and links. NordLayer’s expertise can help you screen every email before cyber-attacks occur.

Our Download Protection scans every attachment automatically using advanced NordVPN Threat Protection technology. Our solution detects and removes malware instantly before it infects your system. It also gives you an overview of scanned files and allows you to track malicious activity.

Download Protection integrates seamlessly with other NordLayer security tools, adding another essential line of defense.

NordLayer’s Web Protection safeguards your business by blocking access to scam, phishing, and malicious websites. If a user inadvertently clicks on a phishing link, our system will intercept and prevent the connection, protecting your organization from potential security threats.

Ease your email attachment anxiety. Contact the NordLayer team and book a demo to find a security solution for your team.

Frequently asked questions

Can you get a virus from opening an email?

Yes. Malware can execute directly from an email via malicious scripts. However, this is unlikely with proper security measures. Infection via attachments and malicious links is much more common.

Is it safe to reply to an unknown email?

Yes, but you should always exercise caution. Phishers may engage you in conversation to build trust and deliver malware. Ask senders to verify their identities before proceeding. If they cannot do this, end the conversation and report the phishing email.

Never open attachments from unknown senders, and avoid following links in emails from strange contacts. Always ask who has sent the message, what they want, and whether they are who they claim to be.

What to do if you click on a phishing link?

Firstly, don’t panic. If a download prompt appears, decline the transfer. Don’t interact with any forms or links on the phishing website. Leave the site as quickly as possible.

To be safe, disconnect your device from the internet and run a system scan. You may want to change critical passwords (a good security practice anyway). And report the fake website to Google.