Understanding the social engineering attacks targeting your business
Social engineering attacks — where criminals manipulate people rather than exploit technology — are among the most effective tools in a cybercriminal's arsenal. Understanding the different types is the first step to defending against them.
Phishing
The most common form: fraudulent emails that appear to come from trusted sources — banks, suppliers, colleagues — designed to steal credentials or install malware. Red flags include urgent language, mismatched sender addresses, and unexpected attachments.
Smishing
SMS-based phishing. Criminals send text messages pretending to be delivery companies, banks, or government agencies, directing victims to fake websites to enter personal details.
Vishing
Voice phishing — phone calls from criminals pretending to be IT support, HMRC, or bank fraud teams. They create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into providing access or transferring money. RED5's IT team will never ask for your password over the phone.
Protecting Your Business
Train your team to recognise these attacks. Implement multi-factor authentication. Verify unexpected requests through a separate channel before acting. Contact RED5 if you think you may have been targeted.
