How Using the SLAM Method Can Improve Phishing Detection

Phishing emails have been a major cybersecurity threat for the last twenty years, often hiding attacks like ransomware, credential theft, and database breaches. Because of this, most security awareness training programs focus heavily on phishing.

Phishing is a constant problem, and attackers now use advanced technology like AI to make their targeted attacks more effective. This threat keeps changing, making it difficult even for experienced security professionals to keep up. Cybercriminals are always finding new ways to trick people.

Even though more people know about phishing scams, scammers are still active and people still fall for their tricks. Many still open dangerous attachments, click on risky links, or share passwords, which puts them at risk. This shows we need to stay even more alert.

In May of 2021, phishing attacks increased by 281%. Then in June, they spiked another 284% higher.

Research shows that six months after training, people are less able to spot phishing attempts. As employees forget what they learned, cybersecurity becomes weaker.

Help your team fight cyber threats by teaching them SLAM, a simple and effective method to quickly spot phishing attempts.

Do you know about the SLAM Method?

Ensuring our emails are safe from malicious intentions can be a tricky task. Fortunately, one mnemonic device used to help us remember important data is the acronym SLAM – an easy-to-remember reminder of four key areas that must all be checked before trusting any message we receive.

They are:

S = Sender

L = Links

A = Attachments

M = Message text

By providing users with the handy acronym “SLAM,” they can quickly and easily guard themselves against malicious emails. This clever device works by helping people recognize suspicious messages – all they have to do is remember the clear-cut cues of this useful abbreviation!

Be cautious with every message you receive.

To avoid falling for scams, it’s critical to pay close attention when checking emails. Unfortunately, malicious actors will often assume identities of relatable sources – from replicating the address or using similar-looking alternatives – thus leaving many vulnerable and unaware that they’re conversing with a fraudster.

Bank of America customers, beware: insidious scammers are using a deceptive ploy to try and steal your valuable information. Crafty criminals have set up fake email addresses that contain some familiar elements – the real company’s URL inside their own domain name (@emcom.bankofamerica.com). Be alert for any suspicious emails claiming to be from Bank of America so you can keep yourself and your data safe!

These scams have caused many people to share sensitive information, like Social Security Numbers and income details. Be careful when applying for credit cards or other services.

A few clicks of the mouse and it’s clear this email address has malicious intentions – a method frequently utilized by phishers to target unsuspecting victims via SMS or emails. Be careful!

With just a few keystrokes, you can quickly uncover the truth behind any suspicious email. Take two seconds to type in an address into Google and be one step ahead of phishing scams!

Get the facts with little effort.

Hyperlinks can sometimes get past antivirus and malware filters. These links may lead to dangerous websites that can infect your device with viruses or harmful code. Be careful before clicking any link.

Emails can be a minefield of scams and false promises, but by observing one tell-tale sign you could save yourself some trouble. Hovering over links without clicking on them is the key to finding out whether an email is authentic or not – when it reveals its true website URL!

When it comes to security, examining emails on mobile devices can be a bit of a challenge. Without the helpful cursor that’s available when using PCs, verifying if an email is legitimate simply by glancing at its URL isn’t always possible – so why take the risk? Instead of clicking through immediately, make sure you go directly to the purported website before deciding whether or not what you’re seeing is authentic.

Be careful with files sent by people you don’t know.

Scammers may send emails with attachments that look harmless, claiming you have won something or found a great deal. Be careful, as these files often hide viruses or malware meant to steal your information.

Cybercriminals are always finding new ways to infect digital documents, making it harder to stay safe. Even PDFs can contain hidden malicious code.

Exercising caution with file attachments is essential – even if it looks familiar, verify its authenticity before opening! To stay safe online and protect your valuable data, use a reliable antivirus/anti-malware program to scan all downloads.

Take time to read the message carefully.

Technology has enabled us to take in a lot of information rapidly, but it can be our downfall too – particularly when we’re not careful about detecting phishing emails. A few key details may give away the malicious intent behind such messages and recognizing them is essential for effective security.

Did you notice the mistake in the malicious link? Try to spot any grammar errors in suspicious messages. Don’t let a clever disguise trick you.

Your item may have shipped, but be wary of emails with minor typos! Errors such as “we confirmation” can mean the message is untrustworthy. Be vigilant and double-check for any red flags in communications before responding.

Take steps to protect yourself from major online threats.

Keep your business safe from phishing by using a complete cybersecurity approach. Combine employee awareness training with strong security software to build a solid defense against malicious emails. Contact us today to get started.