We will review the Top 12 Security Awareness Training Topics in 2023.

What are Phishing Attacks?
Phishing attacks are a type of cyber attack in which an attacker attempts to trick a victim into providing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial information, by posing as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. These communications can take many forms, such as email, text message, or social media message. The goal of the attacker is typically to gain access to sensitive information or to spread malware.

How can I identify a phishing attack?
There are several signs that can help you identify a phishing attack:

1. Unfamiliar sender: Be suspicious of unsolicited messages, especially those from unfamiliar senders.

2. Urgent language: Phishing messages often use urgent language to try and prompt a quick response.

3. Spell check errors: Phishing emails may contain spelling and grammar errors.

4. Requests for personal information: Legitimate companies will not ask for personal information through email or text.

5. Suspicious links or attachments: Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown senders.

6. Mimicking of a known brand: Phishers often create fake emails, websites, and social media profiles that mimic those of well-known brands.

It’s also important to be aware of the latest phishing techniques and to keep your software and security programs up to date to protect yourself from phishing attacks.

It’s always better to double check with the entity that is supposed to have sent the message, before providing any sensitive information or clicking any links.

What kind of software does Microsoft offer to prevent phishing attacks?
Microsoft offers several software solutions to help prevent phishing attacks:

1. Microsoft Office 365: Office 365 includes built-in security features such as Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) and Safe Links, which help to identify and block phishing emails.

2. Windows 10: Windows 10 includes Windows Defender SmartScreen, which helps to protect users from phishing websites by warning users when they visit a known-phishing site.

3. Microsoft Edge: Microsoft’s Edge browser includes features such as SmartScreen and Click Protection, which help to protect users from phishing websites and malicious links.

4. Microsoft Azure: Azure offers Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) for email, which uses machine learning to detect and prevent phishing attacks.

5. Microsoft Exchange Online Protection: This service provides a multi-layered approach to protect organizations from spam, malware and phishing attacks.

It’s worth noting that While these software can provide a good level of protection, it’s also important to maintain good security practices and educate employees on how to identify and avoid phishing attempts.

Can employee cybersecurity training help prevent phishing attacks?
Yes, employee cybersecurity training can help prevent phishing attacks. Phishing is one of the most common ways that attackers gain access to sensitive information, and employees are often the first line of defense against these attacks. By educating employees on how to identify and avoid phishing attempts, organizations can reduce the chances of a successful attack.

Cybersecurity training can teach employees about the different types of phishing attacks, including spear phishing, whaling, and vishing. They can learn how to identify suspicious emails, links, and attachments, and how to verify the identity of senders. Also, they can learn about the security measures that the company has in place, such as spam filters and firewalls, and how to report suspicious activity.

Additionally, training on security best practices such as creating strong passwords and using multi-factor authentication can also help to prevent phishing and other types of cyber attacks.

It’s important to note that cybersecurity training should be ongoing and not a one-time event. Regular training and reminders will help employees stay vigilant and maintain good security practices.

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