Email has become both a lifeline for communication and a prime target for cybercriminals. For small and medium-sized businesses, it is the lifeline between the business and its customers and partners. Recent findings by Forfend, an email security software provider, indicate that approximately 1 in 5 emails sent in 2024 contained potential phishing threats. This alarming statistic highlights a growing need for robust email security measures, as AI-driven phishing scams are on the rise.
The cybersecurity landscape is evolving rapidly. According to cybersecurity experts, email remains the gateway for more than 90% of cyberattacks. Phishing emails—fraudulent messages designed to trick recipients into divulging sensitive information or clicking malicious links—have become increasingly sophisticated, often bypassing traditional security measures.
Why SMBs Are Particularly Vulnerable
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face unique challenges when it comes to cybersecurity. Unlike larger organizations, SMBs often lack dedicated IT teams and resources to address complex cyber threats. Many rely on outsourced IT solutions or basic email security features, which may not be sufficient to combat the growing sophistication of phishing scams.
Jeff Wolverton, CEO of the IT consulting firm PivIT Strategy, emphasizes the increasing accessibility of phishing tools. “With the rise of generative AI, creating realistic phishing and malware campaigns is easier than ever,” he says. “Businesses need to enhance their email platforms with advanced security measures to stay ahead of these threats.”
The Hidden Costs of Phishing
Phishing attacks are not merely a technical issue; they’re a significant business risk. Beyond the immediate financial losses from stolen funds or ransomware payments, businesses often suffer reputational damage and operational downtime. These incidents can erode customer trust and lead to compliance violations, particularly in industries handling sensitive customer data.
In one analysis of 35,000 customer emails, approximately 20% were flagged as scams. Preventative measures successfully blocked these phishing attempts, saving nearly $2 million in potential losses. This underscores the importance of proactive defense mechanisms to safeguard both financial assets and operational continuity.
How Phishing Scams Work
Phishing scams exploit human psychology and technological vulnerabilities. Here are some common tactics used by cybercriminals:
- Generic Greetings: Phishing emails often address recipients with vague terms like “Dear Customer,” avoiding personalized details.
- Urgency and Fear: Scammers create a sense of urgency, prompting immediate action—such as clicking a link—without careful scrutiny.
- Spoofed Email Addresses: Phishing emails frequently use addresses that mimic legitimate organizations, with minor misspellings that are easy to overlook.
- Malicious Links: Hyperlinks in phishing emails may appear legitimate but redirect users to fake websites designed to steal login credentials or other sensitive information.
- Requests for Personal Data: Legitimate organizations rarely ask for sensitive information like passwords or credit card details via email.
Tips to Safeguard Against Phishing
For those companies that do not have an annual review plan, this serves as a timely reminder for businesses to reassess their email security practices. Here are some practical tips to protect against phishing:
- Check the Sender’s Email Address: Verify email addresses for discrepancies or misspellings that might indicate a spoofed account.
- Look for Personalization: Legitimate emails typically address recipients by name. Be cautious of generic greetings.
- Hover Over Links: Before clicking on any link, hover over it to view the actual destination URL. If it looks unfamiliar or suspicious, do not click.
- Verify Requests for Sensitive Information: Contact the sender through official channels to confirm any email requesting sensitive details.
- Educate Your Team: Regular training on recognizing phishing scams can empower employees to act as the first line of defense.
The Role of Technology in Combatting Phishing
While awareness and training are crucial, advanced technology is equally important in defending against phishing attacks. Tools equipped with artificial intelligence can analyze email content, detect anomalies, and flag suspicious behavior in real time. Features like URL analysis, sender verification, and behavioral analytics help organizations identify and block phishing attempts before they reach employees’ inboxes.
Yash Agarwal, a security software expert and CEO of Forfend, stresses the importance of proactive measures: “Phishing attacks aren’t just an IT problem; they’re a business risk. Every click matters, and the right solutions ensure your team stays focused on growth, not damage control.”
Looking Ahead: Cybersecurity in 2025 and Beyond
As AI-generated scams become more prevalent, businesses must adapt to an ever-evolving threat landscape. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to craft highly convincing phishing emails, making traditional security measures less effective. Organizations that fail to prioritize email security risk falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated attacks.
It’s never too late for businesses to reflect on their cybersecurity practices and make necessary improvements. Whether through employee education, advanced email security tools, or a combination of both, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of phishing attacks.
Cybersecurity is no longer optional; it’s essential. By investing in robust defenses and fostering a culture of vigilance, businesses can protect their operations, their customers, and their reputations from the growing threat of cybercrime.
About the Author
Craig McCurdy is a seasoned leader driving transformative security strategies for organizations across industries, with over two decades of experience in cybersecurity, information technology, and enterprise infrastructure. Currently serving as the Chief Information Security Consultant at Saber Secure, LLC, Craig helps organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture through comprehensive risk management and innovative solutions.
Previously, Craig held executive roles as the Vice President of Information Security (CISO) at American Credit Acceptance, where he led end-to-end security programs encompassing risk management, identity and access management, and regulatory compliance. As VP of Infrastructure and Security at Community America Credit Union, he developed robust security frameworks and ensured the stability and scalability of enterprise IT infrastructures.
Craig also brings deep expertise in data protection, IT operations, and compliance from leadership roles at H&R Block, Freeman, First Tennessee Bank, and Sprint. As H&R Block’s first Chief Security Officer, he established a global security program, including a cyber operations team and governance frameworks aligned with industry standards.
Beyond his technical leadership, Craig has advised board members on investment strategies for cybersecurity technologies and has a proven track record of implementing NIST cybersecurity frameworks and ITIL service management practices.
Craig combines technical acumen, strategic vision, and hands-on experience to build resilient systems and drive organizational success in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Craig can be reached online at [email protected] and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/mccurdyc.
