How To Defend Yourself Against Phishing Attacks
Phishing isn’t a relic—it’s evolving. Increasingly crafted and highly targeted, today’s phishing campaigns are designed to trick even tech-savvy professionals. Attackers are no longer just after passwords—they’re pursuing multi-factor authentication approvals, compromising email accounts, and infiltrating sensitive assets like invoice systems. This makes vigilance your greatest defense.
Why You Matter
Even with multiple layers of technical safeguards in place, your awareness and behavior remain the final—and most critical—barrier. No software or filter can catch everything; often, it’s a quick glance or rash decision that lets attackers in.
Spot the Red Flags
Phishing starts with manipulation—urgency, fear, or unusual requests are common hooks. If an email asks you to act immediately (“pay this invoice now” or “approve this login”), take a moment. Slow down. Think.
Never Enter Credentials Through Email Links
It’s tempting to click that link to update your password, especially when it looks compelling. But phishing pages often mirror real log-in portals and quietly steal both passwords and MFA tokens. Always navigate to websites directly rather than clicking on embedded links.
Be Cautious with MFA Requests
Multi-factor authentication is a powerful defense. Unfortunately, attackers can prompt bogus MFA alerts, hoping you’ll approve without thinking. Only green-light these when you’ve just initiated a login yourself. If a request appears unexpectedly—pause. Better safe than sorry.
Use Unique Passwords—Every Time
Reusing passwords across tools or services is risky. If one account is compromised, the rest fall like dominoes. Use password managers—like KeePass or LastPass—to generate and safely store strong, unique passwords across all your accounts.
What to Do with Suspicious Emails
Received something that feels off? Do not forward it, click on links, open attachments, or respond in any way. Instead, escalate it through your organization’s security protocol or contact your IT support team immediately. Quick reporting helps shield the broader team from threats.
Incidents of phishing are on the rise, and the methods are becoming sophisticated—targeted, persuasive, sometimes even deeply deceptive. By staying vigilant and following best practices, you can help stop these attacks before they cause damage.
Why INC Systems Can Help
As your trusted Managed Service Provider, INC Systems goes beyond reactive support. We layer in intelligent email safeguards, proactive monitoring, and education that empowers employees to recognize and avoid phishing threats. Combine our expertise with your vigilance—and phishing doesn’t stand a chance.
In business since 2004, INC SYSTEMS based out of Flint, Michigan is an MSP that understands how to leverage technology, implement solutions to meet the needs of our clients, and exceed their expectations. We do this by taking the time to understand the needs of a particular business or project and recommending specific solutions to reach the goals set forth.
