"Impersonation in Communication": Messages that mimic authenticated entities, like banks, but are actually fraudulent.
In today's digital age, staying safe online is more important than ever. Cyber criminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and one of the most common methods they use is email, SMS, and phone call spoofing. These techniques allow them to impersonate people or organisations, such as banks, to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.
Fortunately, companies and individuals can take steps to protect themselves from these threats. Santander, a leading financial institution, is at the forefront of this fight, running initiatives to help customers and non-customers understand cyber security and stay safe online.
One of Santander's initiatives is the Cyber heroes online training program, which is helping diverse audiences. The program teaches users how to recognise phishing emails, suspicious links, and unexpected attachments, and how to respond appropriately.
In addition to the Cyber heroes program, Santander offers a centralised cybersecurity platform called Cyber Guardian. This platform helps detect and block suspicious messages, educate employees, and improve online security. Santander's award-winning fictional podcast on cybersecurity, Titania, is also helping with cybersecurity education.
To protect yourself from email spoofing, organisations should implement email authentication protocols such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC. These protocols reduce email spoofing by ensuring only authorised senders can send emails on behalf of the domain. Additionally, using advanced email filters and anti-phishing software can help scan and block suspicious messages before they reach users.
To prevent SMS spoofing, it's important to keep devices updated, use antivirus software, be cautious with links and messages, and change passwords frequently. Never click on links or respond to messages from unknown or suspicious numbers. Instead, verify any unexpected texts with the sender through a trusted channel.
When it comes to phone call spoofing, it's essential to be skeptical of unexpected calls. Avoid sharing personal information or authentication codes over the phone unless you have independently confirmed the caller's identity. Families or teams can use a pre-agreed password during phone calls to verify the caller’s identity and guard against voice spoofing or deepfake attacks.
In addition to these technical safeguards, Santander encourages users to employ general cyber hygiene practices. This includes using strong, unique passwords, avoiding suspicious payment methods, and preparing for incident response. Organisations should also independently verify any communication claiming to be from banks, government agencies, or companies before responding or clicking links.
By combining technical safeguards with user education and cautious behaviour, companies and individuals can significantly reduce their exposure to email, SMS, and phone call spoofing threats and strengthen their defences against phishing and cyber attacks.
Remember, if you receive a suspicious SMS or email impersonating Santander, report it to [email protected]. If something doesn't seem right, always contact the company that the criminals are impersonating.
Sources: [1] https://www.santander.co.uk/security-centre/mobile-banking-security [2] https://www.santander.co.uk/security-centre/phone-banking-security [3] https://www.santander.co.uk/security-centre/email-security [4] https://www.santander.co.uk/security-centre/phishing-scams
- Santander, a pioneer in financial education, offers the Cyber heroes online training program to help users recognize phishing emails, links, and attachments, thereby fostering digital banking safety.
- As part of its commitment to financial inclusion and cybersecurity, Santander presents Cyber Guardian, a centralized platform that enhances online security by detecting and blocking suspicious messages, educating employees, and improving overall cybersecurity awareness.
- In line with promoting technology-driven business growth, Santander launched the award-winning fictional podcast, Titania, aimed at providing cybersecurity education to a wider audience, thereby contributing to the broader digital banking landscape.
- To combat email, SMS, and phone call spoofing, it's vital for businesses and individuals to implement multiple layers of protection, such as email authentication protocols, advanced filters, anti-phishing software, and cautious behavior, ensuring a secure and inclusive financial environment.
