Beware of SubdoMailing: A New Tactic Cyber Criminals Use to Trick You
Picture this: You’re going through your regular day, checking emails, and you come across a message from a company you trust. You think, “Great, this is safe!” But wait… something isn’t right. This email is not what it seems. It’s a well-disguised scam designed by cybercriminals to trick you into clicking malicious links or handing over sensitive information. This attack is called “SubdoMailing,” and it’s as dangerous as it sounds.
What Exactly is SubdoMailing?
SubdoMailing is an emerging form of phishing where cybercriminals pose as trusted brands, just like in other phishing attacks. However, they employ a more sophisticated technique. Here’s how it works:
- Finding Unused Subdomains: Cybercriminals search the web for subdomains of legitimate and reputable companies. A subdomain is that extra bit in a web address, such as
support.trustdbrand.cm (not a real example), where ‘support’ is the subdomain. - Hijacking Unused Subdomains: Once they identify a subdomain that the brand no longer uses but still points to an external domain that’s unregistered, they take advantage. The criminals purchase this expired domain and set up a fake website to mimic the real company.
- Scamming Users: You might see a familiar-looking URL, such as
experience.trustdbrand.cm, but instead of leading you to the expected website, it seamlessly redirects you to a scam site (scamwebsite.com). Many users don’t notice this subtle change and unknowingly fall into the trap.
Millions of these deceptive emails are being sent out daily, targeting businesses like yours. The scariest part? These emails appear to come from legitimate sources, allowing them to bypass usual security checks and land directly in your inbox.
How to Protect Yourself From SubdoMailing Scams
In today’s interconnected world, being cautious and informed is the best way to stay protected. SubdoMailing is clever, but there are effective strategies to guard against this type of attack. Here’s our expert advice on staying safe:
1. Be Cautious of Suspicious Emails
If an email feels even slightly off, trust your instincts—there’s a good chance it could be dangerous. Cybercriminals often use subtle tactics that can make even the most experienced user fall for their traps.
2. Verify the Sender Before Clicking
Take an extra moment to examine any email before clicking links or downloading attachments. Double-check the sender’s details and look out for red flags, such as:
- Spelling mistakes
- Unusual or suspicious email addresses
- Unfamiliar or unexpected messages from trusted brands
3. Educate Your Employees
Keep your staff informed about the latest phishing strategies like SubdoMailing. Regular training and awareness sessions can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to a scam. A well-informed team is your first line of defence.
4. Invest in High-Quality Security Software
Advanced security software can act as a strong barrier against such attacks. Many businesses hesitate to invest in these solutions due to cost concerns, but the reality is that it’s a small price to pay for the protection of your company’s data. This investment can save your business from far greater financial and reputational damage.
SubdoMailing: A New Cybersecurity Challenge for Businesses
With five million of these malicious emails sent daily, cybercriminals are showing no signs of slowing down. They’re targeting organisations just like yours, and as the methods become more sophisticated, traditional security measures might not always be enough. Therefore, it’s crucial to remain proactive.
At Novix IT, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive cybersecurity services tailored to businesses of all sizes. We understand that evolving threats like SubdoMailing require ongoing attention and robust solutions. Whether it’s updating your security software or conducting staff training, we’re here to help protect your business from cyber threats.
Stay One Step Ahead of Cybercriminals
Cybersecurity is not something that should be taken lightly. The consequences of a successful phishing attack can range from stolen data to significant financial losses, and worse, damage to your reputation. By staying aware of the tactics like SubdoMailing, regularly updating your security protocols, and educating your employees, you can minimise the risk of becoming a victim.
If you need assistance with email security or any aspect of protecting your business from cyber threats, contact our team at Novix IT today. We’re always ready to support your organisation with expert advice and cutting-edge solutions.