How To Defend Yourself Against Phishing Attacks

Phishing has evolved. No longer are cyber attackers casting wide nets with clumsy misspelled messages—instead, they’re crafting highly targeted campaigns designed to gain your trust and hijack your credentials or even your multi-factor authentication (MFA) approvals. Their goal? To infiltrate email accounts, intercept invoice workflows, and access sensitive company data.

While your organization may have multiple layers of security in place, ultimately, you are the most important security control in the line of defense. Your awareness can mean the difference between a thwarted attempt and a costly breach.

Recognize the Signs of a Trap

Phishing attempts often manipulate our emotions—especially urgency or fear. A message urging you to “approve now,” “reset immediately,” or “act fast” should always raise suspicions. These ploys are meant to derail your judgment.

Always pause. Ask yourself: Does this request follow a familiar pattern? Is it truly out of the ordinary? Contact the sender using a known, trusted method before taking action.

Never Enter Your Password via an Email Link

Phishing websites are often indistinguishable from legitimate login portals. Entering your password on a link inside an email—even if it looks genuine—is like handing the key to your account directly to attackers.

Instead, navigate manually—either type the URL in your browser or use a trusted bookmark. That small detour can keep you safe.

Be Skeptical of Unexpected MFA Requests

MFA was designed to add security—but attackers are now abusing it. You might receive unsolicited MFA requests prompting you to “confirm” a login. Approving one when nothing is in progress hands control to malicious actors.

Only approve MFA prompts when you’ve personally initiated a login and you recognize the source. If the request is unexpected: deny it immediately.

Use Unique, Strong Passwords—And Keep Them that Way

Reusing passwords across accounts is a recipe for compromise. One breach often means access to many systems.

Protect your credentials with a password manager. These tools generate and secure robust, unique passwords for every service you use. Simple, yet effective.

Don’t Enable Suspicious Emails to Spread

If an email feels off—for any reason—don’t forward it, click on links, open attachments, or respond. Report it through your IT team or security channel immediately. Quick reporting can prevent widespread impact across your organization.

The Evolving Phishing Landscape

Sophisticated adversaries have shifted from brute technical attacks to subtle manipulations—leveraging MFA fatigue, impersonation, and real-time interception to bypass defenses. The rise of AI-generated phishing adds even more danger, with hyper-personalized messages that can mimic trusted colleagues.

Why Vigilance Still Wins

Phishing tactics are constantly evolving, but one factor remains constant: the human response. Your ability to think twice—or better yet, to think first—can stop attacks from succeeding.

TEAM ITS: Your Security Ally

At TEAM ITS, we believe security is a partnership. Our approach blends sophisticated tools—like AI-driven email defense, behavioral analytics, and adaptive filters—with ongoing user education and awareness training.

You stay informed. We stay proactive. Together, we make phishing far less effective—helping your business operate confidently and securely.

TEAM ITS, LLC has been serving the Central and Southern Illinois area since 2016, providing IT Support such as technical helpdesk support, computer support and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses. Book a complimentary consultation today.