Microsoft has issued a warning about a sophisticated phishing scam targeting business owners. This scam manipulates trusted cloud services like SharePoint and OneDrive to steal sensitive login information.
How the Scam Works
While SharePoint and OneDrive are generally secure platforms, cybercriminals have found ways to bypass privacy settings and sneak past security measures.
Here’s what they do:
- Access Your Cloud Storage: Scammers either steal your login credentials or purchase them illegally.
- Upload Fake Files: Once inside, they create a file that mimics something you’d trust, such as a Microsoft 365 login page.
- Restrict Access: These files are often set to “view-only” or shared with specific individuals—like you or your team—making them seem more legitimate.
When you open these files or click on embedded links, you risk exposing your business to significant harm. This can include:
- Unauthorized access to sensitive systems.
- Malware infections that disrupt operations and steal data.
Why This Matters
Recovering from such an attack can drain your time and finances, not to mention harm your reputation. Customers and partners may lose trust in your ability to protect their information, which can have long-term consequences.
How to Protect Your Business
You don’t have to be a tech expert to guard against these threats. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Educate Your Team
- Train employees to be cautious with emails, especially those containing shared files.
- Encourage them to verify the sender’s identity directly if something seems suspicious.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Add an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone, alongside your password.
- Keep Security Software Updated
- Regular updates ensure your systems are equipped to handle the latest cyber threats.
By staying vigilant and proactive, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.
Need Help Securing Your Business?
If you want added protection, employee training, or ongoing monitoring, we’re here to help. Reach out to learn more about how we can safeguard your business from these evolving threats.
Next Steps
Are you looking for a new IT service provider? Check out our free guide that explains how to choose your next IT service provider for some quick tips to get you started! Schedule a free 15-minute discovery call with someone from our team to see if we’re a good mutual fit!
