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Retarus Press Release:

Retarus alert: Bogus Microsoft 365 emails in circulation

Devious variant of phishing simulates password verification

Munich, 21.02.2018 // The security experts at Retarus are cautioning users about a particularly sneaky wave of phishing attacks: Personalized phishing mails with a deceptively realistic Microsoft design and layout are currently doing the rounds, amongst other things requesting recipients to enter and confirm their passwords. Retarus is therefore advising users to check any links contained in such messages with the utmost care. Additional protection is provided by special email security solutions which boast comprehensive filtering of phishing messages and the latest advanced threat protection functions.

The phishing email currently circulating has the subject line “Update Your Account Information To Avoid Service Suspension” and purports to be from the sender “Microsoft 365” (@office.com). In the email, recipients are instructed to update their user details stored with Microsoft 365. The link contained in the message leads to a website which resembles that of Microsoft with deceptive accuracy. The exceptional feature of this attack is that the email makes a credible impression by requesting that users enter their passwords twice for verification. The fraudulent emails moreover resemble the genuine message both optically and in terms of the contents. They are formulated using correct language and contain a plausible sender address as well as authentic logos, fonts and colors. Those entering their login details are opening their Microsoft 365 accounts to the online fraudsters, including all data and documents that it contains.

Increased vigilance and advanced threat protection for optimum security

To safeguard against the dangers posed by these types of phishing attempts, increased vigilance and close attention to the plausibility of the message are essential. In the business environment, companies should sensitize their employees about dealing with emails that request user details without authorization. The linked destination address should be checked carefully. It is also possible to check the authenticity of the referenced website by means of the encryption symbol in the address field of the browser. For Microsoft 365 users, when in doubt it is advisable to enter the Microsoft web address manually into the browser and log into the customer area there.

In addition to raising awareness, professional email security services also assist in protecting companies from such phishing attacks. Specialized providers like Retarus augment their filter rules continuously ensuring that they remain updated at all times. At the same time, innovative mechanisms such as Retarus‘ Advanced Threat Protection examine all links contained in emails, for instance through time-of-click protection, each and every time they are clicked on and compare them in real-time with pertinent phishing databases. In this way, clicks made within dubious emails are intercepted effectively, while the user receives a security alert.

Screenshot Phishing Mail

About Retarus

Retarus is a global provider of cloud solutions, modernizing and securing the digital communications and data exchange of organizations and public authorities. Key products are digital Cloud Fax, SMS, Transactional Email, Email Security, Supply Chain Integration, and Intelligent Document Processing. Retarus operates globally distributed data centers, providing these solutions with top performance, security, and data protection. Headquartered in Munich and founded in 1992, Retarus is privately owned and proud of its innovative strength. The company employs around 500 people in 20 locations on four continents. Nearly half of the companies listed in the S&P Global 100 already place their trust in Retarus and, along with leading analysts, confirm the outstanding quality and reliability of its services. Retarus generates around 40 percent of its revenue in the US and offers its products both directly and in close cooperation with selected partners. More information: www.retarus.com

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