Platforms commonly used by companies and graphic designers to collaborate and create content are being used by attackers for phishing attacks, according to threat analysts at Barracuda Networks.
The corresponding content creation platforms have millions of users worldwide. Attackers use these platforms to send emails that contain legitimate-looking posts, designs, and documents, but with embedded phishing links. When clicked, these links redirect users to fraudulent login pages or other misleading websites that aim to steal sensitive information such as login and other personal data. In one of the cases observed by Barracuda analysts, a platform was used to host voicemail phishing links.
Phishing without borders
"The increase in phishing attacks that use trusted collaboration and content creation platforms clearly shows that cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting the trust of widely used and reputable online communities to launch their attacks and remain undetected," said Saravanan Govindarajan, Manager Threat Analysis at Barracuda. "It is therefore important for individuals and organizations to remain vigilant and ensure they have robust security measures in place that are able to detect and adapt to a continuously evolving threat landscape."
Hidden links of the attackers
The new findings from Barracuda threat analysts are part of a series of recent reports based on data and threat intelligence collected by Barracuda. The reports show how attackers behind email threats are evolving their tools and tactics to be more successful in their attacks and ensure they are not detected and blocked by modern security measures. This includes, for example, attackers using QR codes, popular webmail services and URL shorteners, as well as attacks that have attempted to exfiltrate potentially significant amounts of data via sophisticated infostealers.
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To be ideally protected against these threats, Barracuda recommends that email recipients be cautious when prompted to click links in unsolicited emails or messages from unknown senders. Other potential red flags include suspicious calls to action and unusual or illogical landing pages from received links, such as a non-Microsoft service that asks for Microsoft credentials.
More at Barracuda.com
Via Barracuda Networks
Striving to make the world a safer place, Barracuda believes that every business should have access to cloud-enabled, enterprise-wide security solutions that are easy to purchase, implement and use. Barracuda protects email, networks, data and applications with innovative solutions that grow and adapt as the customer journey progresses. More than 150.000 companies worldwide trust Barracuda to help them focus on growing their business. For more information, visit www.barracuda.com.
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