August 18, 2025
While you and your team may be returning from vacation, cybercriminals remain relentless. Research from ProofPoint and Check Point reveals that phishing attacks actually surge during the summer months. Here’s how to stay vigilant and protect your business.
Why Are Threats Rising in Summer?
Cyber attackers exploit summer travel trends by mimicking popular hotel and Airbnb websites, according to Check Point Research. They've identified a 55% rise in new travel-related domain registrations in May 2025 compared to last year, with over 39,000 domains created—one in 21 flagged as malicious or suspicious.
The back-to-school season also triggers a spike in phishing scams impersonating university emails, targeting students and staff alike. Even if your business isn't in education, employees checking personal emails on work devices during this period can inadvertently expose your company to cyber threats with just one wrong click.
How to Defend Against These Attacks
With AI enhancing both cybersecurity defenses and phishing tactics, it’s crucial to educate yourself and your team on identifying and avoiding malicious links.
Key safety measures to safeguard your business:
• Vigilantly scrutinize suspicious emails. Don’t rely solely on spotting spelling errors or awkward phrasing—AI can craft convincing messages. Always verify the sender’s email address and inspect any visible links for authenticity.
• Verify URLs carefully. Look out for misspelled links or unusual domain extensions like .today or .info, which are commonly linked to scams.
• Access websites directly. Instead of clicking on links in emails or messages, type the website address yourself to avoid phishing traps.
• Activate Multifactor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if credentials are compromised, your sensitive data remains protected.
• Exercise caution with public WiFi. When using public networks, always employ a VPN to securely access sensitive information like booking sites or financial accounts.
• Avoid checking personal emails on company devices. Mixing personal and work accounts on the same device increases vulnerability. Keep personal activities on personal devices and reserve work devices strictly for business.
• Consult your MSP about endpoint security. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools monitor your devices, block phishing attempts and malicious downloads, and alert your MSP immediately if a breach occurs, minimizing data exposure.
As phishing schemes grow more sophisticated—accelerated by AI—it’s vital to keep your team educated and alert. Knowledge remains your strongest defense. Stay informed, stay protected!
Kick off the season with confidence—click here or call us at (541) 726-7775 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today.
