Cyber attacks using the Internet have evolved, becoming more sophisticated and harder to identify. These threats target both businesses and individuals alike, and one of the most common ones is phishing.
This involves an attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames and passwords, banking information, or credit card details from users. It is mostly carried out through the use of ‘social engineering’ tactics, such as deception through emails, setting up spoofed web pages or links that will reveal personal information when clicked on.
Most users tend to associate virtual private networks (VPNs) with data privacy due to their data encryption capabilities, however, VPNs can also protect users from these phishing attempts.
Types Of Phishing Attacks
The main trait of phishing attacks is that the attacker will impersonate somebody that their victim knows. This makes it easier to coax information out of them, whether it be a family member or bank staff verifying details.
As these tactics have become more elaborate over the years, different forms of phishing have emerged. When it comes to business and personal safety, it’s important to be aware of all of them.
The most popular one is e-mail phishing, where victims receive mails with links to fake websites. By clicking the link, they open their devices up to hackers who can then access their information.
Spear phishing is more targeted, and aimed at specific individuals or companies. This can happen if they have certain information that the hacker wants, or for financial gain.
Pharming is another popular form of phishing, where links to fake websites are found on legitimate ones. Users are then unknowingly redirected to the false website where their data can be accessed.
How Can VPNs Protect Against Phishing?
VPNs offer an extra layer of security when it comes to phishing attempts. They are also relatively inexpensive if you pay a monthly subscription for the features that suit you and your budget.
Let’s take a look at exactly how they can protect users from hackers.
Most VPNs Have A Built-In Protection
Several VPN software have malware and phishing protection features that prevents the ability to access harmful websites. In a case where a phishing link tries to redirect the user to a forged website, the VPN can alert you of suspicious activity. Some programs with advanced features will even automatically block it.
All Data Is Encrypted
VPNs provide an encrypted tunnel for the data that flows to and from your device and the Internet. Even if hackers manage to connect to your network, they will not be able to retrieve confidential data like login information or credit card details.
In cases of phishing, where a user might end up giving away information over a compromised network, a VPN ensures that even if such information is intercepted, it still can’t be accessed.
It Hides Your IP Address To Avoid Targeted Phishing
When hackers know your location or personal details about you, they can make their phishing attempt more personalised. The more legitimate that their attempt appears, the more likely that they will succeed.
VPNs hide your actual IP address so that your location can’t be found. This makes it much harder for hackers to find out information about you especially in spear phishing which relies on knowing that personal information.
It Provides A Safe Environment For Remote Workers
Employees working from home does raise concerns about the security of confidential company information. By using a VPN, the connection to their corporate network will be secure and reduce the chance of an employee falling victim to a phishing attempt.
How To Make A VPN Work For Your Protection
VPNs are a handy tool to safeguard yourself against phishing attacks, but only if you know how to use it correctly.
When using the Internet on a public Wi-Fi network, it is always recommended to use a VPN to make sure that hackers can’t identify you or your data.
Additionally, you should choose a VPN with phishing blocking features. You can take it one step further and combine this with an antivirus software for protection against malware and viruses.
It is always useful to stay on top of new phishing trends, especially as a business and to make sure that employees are aware of potential threats and how to identify them.
