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Phishing is becoming increasingly common , for both consumers and brands alike and many SMEs aren ’ t equipped to deal with these attacks , either due to budget or size . Mike Fleck , VP Marketing at Cyren , discusses what the modern-day phishing attack looks like , how the different types of AI used in cybersecurity can help prevent these phishing attacks in SMEs and the limitations SMEs face when implementing an AI solution that prevents their employees from experiencing an attack .

Why is phishing still the number one attack vector ?

Return on investment ( ROI ) is one of the biggest drivers for business – the practice of achieving more for less . Unfortunately , cybercriminals have a similar strategy in mind . Phishing is the go-to approach for many modern-day attacks simply because it ’ s relatively straightforward and cost-effective . Its broad attack range means it is often the first part of a multi-stage attack campaign , targeting vulnerable employees with social engineering techniques . Once successful , the adversary can launch more intricate and complex attacks using stolen credentials .

Being able to target thousands of individuals with one phishing campaign gives criminals plenty of opportunities to breach the perimeter , leaving SMEs at the mercy of their advancing techniques . SMEs are particularly vulnerable to these attacks and are therefore seen as greater targets , simply because they may lack the resources to defend themselves that larger businesses have at hand . There ’ s no security from being a small target . Employees , therefore , become the front-line defence , but even with the added benefits of security awareness training ( SAT ), this often isn ’ t enough to keep the barricades strong .

It ’ s impossible to keep sophisticated phishing attacks at bay with SAT alone , as just one lax employee is enough to let the stronghold collapse . Phishing attacks are relentless , which makes them that bit more deadly . Letting your guard down for one minute could prove fatal , so SMEs need to turn their attention to more advanced forms of protection .

SMES ARE PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE TO THESE ATTACKS AND ARE THEREFORE SEEN AS GREATER TARGETS .