August 18, 2025
While you and your team return from vacation, cybercriminals remain relentless. Research from ProofPoint and Check Point reveals that phishing attacks actually surge during the summer months. Here’s how you can stay vigilant and protect your business.
Why Are Summer Months Riskier?
Cybercriminals exploit the summer travel season by masquerading as hotel or Airbnb websites, according to Check Point Research. They report a 55% jump in newly registered vacation-related domains in May 2025 compared to last year, with over 39,000 domains created—one in every 21 flagged as malicious or suspicious.
Additionally, the back-to-school period brings a rise in phishing emails impersonating university communications aimed at students and staff. Even if your business isn’t directly targeted, employees checking personal emails on work devices can inadvertently invite cyberattacks with just one click.
How to Safeguard Your Team
As AI enhances cybersecurity, it also enables more convincing phishing scams. Educating yourself and your employees on spotting threats is crucial to avoid falling victim.
Follow these essential safety tips:
• Watch for suspicious emails. Don’t rely solely on spotting typos or poor grammar—AI can craft flawless phishing emails. Verify sender addresses and scrutinize visible links to confirm authenticity.
• Verify URLs carefully. Look out for misspelled links or unusual domain extensions like .today or .info, which are common in scam sites.
• Access websites directly. Instead of clicking links in emails or messages, type website addresses yourself to avoid fraudulent sites.
• Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra security layer, protecting your accounts and data even if login credentials are compromised.
• Use caution on public WiFi. When using public networks, always connect through a VPN to safeguard sensitive information like booking details or financial accounts.
• Keep personal email off company devices. Mixing personal and work accounts increases risk. Use personal devices for personal accounts and work devices strictly for business.
• Consult your MSP about endpoint security. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools monitor devices, block phishing attempts and malware, and alert your MSP immediately if a breach occurs, minimizing data exposure.
Phishing threats evolve rapidly, fueled by AI advancements. The strongest defense is an informed team. Keep your employees educated and your business secure.
Kick off the season with confidence—click here or call us at 916-626-4000 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today.
