August 18, 2025
While you and your team may be returning from vacation, cybercriminals never pause their attacks. Studies from ProofPoint and Check Point reveal a notable surge in phishing scams during the summer months. Here's how you can stay alert and safeguard your business.
Why Does the Risk Increase?
Cyber attackers exploit the summer travel season by mimicking hotel and Airbnb websites, according to Check Point Research. They reported a 55% rise in newly registered travel-related domains in May 2025 compared to last year, with over 39,000 domains created—one in every 21 flagged as malicious or suspicious.
As summer winds down, back-to-school season triggers a spike in phishing emails impersonating legitimate university communications, targeting both students and staff. Even if your industry isn't directly affected, employees checking personal emails on work devices can inadvertently expose your entire business to cyber threats.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Team
While AI enhances cybersecurity and streamlines tasks, it also enables attackers to craft highly convincing phishing emails. Training your team to recognize these threats is crucial to prevent costly mistakes.
Follow these essential security tips:
• Vigilantly scrutinize suspicious emails. Don't rely solely on spotting spelling errors or awkward phrasing—AI-generated phishing emails can appear flawless. Always verify the sender's email address and inspect link texts carefully to ensure authenticity.
• Verify URLs thoroughly. Look out for misspellings or unusual domain extensions like .today or .info, which are commonly used by scammers.
• Access websites directly. Instead of clicking links in emails or messages, type the website address manually or use a trusted search engine.
• Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security, protecting your credentials and sensitive data even if a breach occurs.
• Use caution with public WiFi. When connecting to public networks, always utilize a VPN to secure your access to sensitive information such as booking sites or financial accounts.
• Keep personal emails off company devices. Mixing personal and work accounts on the same device increases vulnerability. Use separate devices for personal and business communications.
• Consult your MSP about endpoint security solutions. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools can monitor your devices, block phishing attempts, and alert your MSP instantly if a breach occurs, minimizing data exposure.
Phishing tactics evolve rapidly, accelerated by AI advancements. The most effective defense is a well-informed team—empower your employees with knowledge to recognize and avoid threats. Stay vigilant and protect your business!
Kick off the season with confidence—click here or give us a call at (419) 522-4001 your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today.
