Phishers tend to focus on businesses during the week, on social media and on finances on the weekend, according to a report by Vade Secure.
Social engineering attacks – usually in the form of phishing – continue to be the most popular attack method for cybercriminals, while the rise of social media for personal promotion, including the rise of Instagram influencers, has led to increased targeting of social media services. Specifically, phishing campaigns on Facebook increased by 155.5% in the first quarter, moving up three places in the ranking, compared to the previous report.
Phishing on Instagram increased by 1.868,8% in the last quarter, climbing 47 positions. The increased interest in social media is not universal, as LinkedIn fell nine positions, reaching 19.
According to the report, the 10 most popular choices of phishers are:
Microsoft
PayPal
Netflix
Bank of America
Crédit Agricole
DHL
Apple
Dropbox
CIBC
Despite a decrease of 4.5%, Microsoft remains the top choice, while PayPal and Netflix swapped positions in the last quarter.
It's worth noting that, according to the report, many Netflix phishing emails contain up to six or seven legitimate Netflix links (in addition to one malicious link). This technique fools email filters.
Netflix and Facebook phishing is increasing throughout the weekend, while Bank of America phishing increased on Friday and Saturday, possibly due to compensation for certain employees. Microsoft, Dropbox, PayPal and Credit Agricole phishing are focused more on Monday and Tuesday.
