Contributed by George Mack, Content Marketing Manager, Check Point Software.
Are your employees properly trained to spot the red flags in a phishing email?
If not, you could be putting your organization at grave risk – especially when you consider the fact that 91% of all cyber attacks begin with a phishing email.
Evaluate your employees' awareness by administering phishing exercises. Here, we've assembled ten sample phishing email templates tailored to gauge the susceptibility of individuals within your organization to actual phishing attacks. Customize the templates with names, URLs, and brands of your preference. For those who fall victim, use this opportunity to provide guidance on their errors and advise them on preventive measures moving forward.
Example 1: The Urgent Account Update Scam
Subject: "Immediate Action Required: Verify Your Account Now to Prevent Suspension!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We regret to inform you that your account is currently at risk of suspension due to suspicious activity. To maintain uninterrupted access to your account and to safeguard your data, please click on the link below, verifying and updating your account information immediately. Failure to do so may result in permanent account suspension.
[Malicious Link]
We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. Thank you for choosing our services.
Sincerely,
[Fake Company Name]"
Example 2: The Fake Invoice Email
Subject: "Urgent: Unpaid Invoice Requires Immediate Attention and Payment"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We hope this message finds you well. Unfortunately, we've noticed that your recent invoice #[Fake Invoice Number] remains unpaid, and it is now overdue. To avoid late fees and potential legal actions, we kindly request that you to settle the outstanding amount by clicking on the link below. You can review the invoice details in the attached PDF.
[Malicious Link]
Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out to our billing department.
Sincerely,
[Fake Company Name]"
Example 3: The Job Opportunity Scam
Subject: "Exciting Career Opportunity Awaits: You've Been Selected!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We are thrilled to extend our warmest congratulations to you! After a rigorous selection process, we are pleased to offer you the position of [Fake Job Title] with [Fake Company Name]. This coveted opportunity promises an impressive salary, flexible work hours, and a host of benefits that await you.
To proceed with your onboarding, please complete the attached document, which includes our employment contract and a detailed job description. Your prompt action is appreciated as we look forward to welcoming you to our team.
If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact our HR department.
Best regards,
[Fake HR Manager's Name]
[Fake Company Name]"
Example 4: The Suspicious Tech Support Email
Subject: "Critical System Issue Detected: Immediate Contact Required to Prevent Data Loss"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We hope this message finds you well. Our system diagnostics have detected a critical issue within your account that requires immediate attention to prevent data loss and service disruption.
Please call our dedicated support team at [Fake Support Number] or click on the link below to initiate a remote session with our technicians. They will guide you through the necessary steps to resolve this matter promptly and efficiently.
[Malicious Link]
Your prompt response is crucial in ensuring the continued stability and security of your account. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Fake Support Team]
[Fake Company Name]"
Example 5: The Charity Plea
Subject: "Support a Noble Cause: Your Contribution Can Make a Difference"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
At [Fake Charity Name], we are on a mission to create positive change in the lives of those in need. Your generous support has always played a pivotal role in our success, and we're excited to share an incredible opportunity with you.
Please click on the link below to explore our latest initiatives and make a donation that aligns with your philanthropic values. Every contribution, no matter the amount, has the power to impact lives positively.
[Malicious Link]
We sincerely thank you for your unwavering commitment to our cause. Your continued support means the world to us.
Warm regards,
[Fake Charity Spokesperson]
[Fake Charity Name]
Example 6: The Tax Refund Scheme
Subject: "Tax Refund Notification: Claim Your Well-Deserved Money Now!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We are pleased to inform you that you are eligible for a substantial tax refund. Our records indicate that you qualify for a refund of [Fake Refund Amount], which can significantly bolster your finances.
To expedite the refund process, please click on the link below and provide the necessary banking details. Our dedicated team will ensure that your refund is processed promptly and reaches you without delay.
[Malicious Link]
We understand the importance of timely financial assistance, and we appreciate your cooperation in this matter. If you require any assistance or have questions, please feel free to reach out to our dedicated tax support team.
Sincerely,
[Fake Tax Refund Services]
[Fake Tax Agency Name]"
Example 7: The Phony Lottery Win Email
Subject: "Congratulations! You've Won the [Fake Lottery Name] Jackpot!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We are delighted to announce that you have emerged as the lucky winner of the [Fake Lottery Name] Jackpot! Your ticket number #[Fake Ticket Number] has secured you a substantial cash prize of [Fake Prize Amount].
To claim your winnings, please click on the link below and provide us with your personal and banking details. Our team is eager to ensure that your prize is promptly transferred to your account.
[Malicious Link]
We extend our warmest congratulations and look forward to facilitating your prize collection.
Best regards,
[Fake Lottery Coordinator]
[Fake Lottery Name]"
Example 8: The Package Delivery Scam
Subject: "Immediate Action Required: Your Parcel Delivery is Pending!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We apologize for the inconvenience but your recent parcel delivery #[Fake Tracking Number] is currently pending. To expedite the delivery process, please click on the link below to verify your shipping address and schedule a convenient delivery time.
[Malicious Link]
We understand the importance of receiving your package promptly and appreciate your cooperation in resolving this matter.
Sincerely,
[Fake Shipping Company]
[Fake Parcel Service]"
Example 9: The Account Suspension Threat
Subject: "Urgent: Account Suspension Imminent – Verify Your Details Now!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We regret to inform you that your account is under review due to suspected unauthorized access. To prevent immediate account suspension, please click on the link below to verify your account details. This will help us confirm your identity and safeguard your account from potential security threats.
[Malicious Link]
We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your continued trust in our services.
Best regards,
[Fake Security Team]
[Fake Company Name]"
Example 10: The Scholarship Opportunity Scam
Subject: "Exclusive Scholarship Opportunity: Secure Your Future Today!"
Content: "Dear [Recipient's Name],
We are excited to inform you of an exclusive scholarship opportunity that awaits you. Our prestigious scholarship program offers you the chance to pursue your educational dreams without financial constraints.
To apply for this scholarship, please click on the link below and complete the application form. We believe in nurturing talent, and this scholarship could be your gateway to a brighter future.
[Malicious Link]
We look forward to receiving your application and wish you the best of luck in your educational endeavors.
Warm regards,
[Fake Scholarship Coordinator]
[Fake Scholarship Organization]"
Conclusion
Phishing awareness plays a major role in bolstering overall security, both for organizations and individuals.
With the 20th anniversary of Cyber Security Awareness Month upon us, now is the time to educate your employees on how they can combat phishing threats. For a complete Security Awareness training program with phishing simulations and thousands of training resources that will equip your employees with the knowledge to identify and report these cyber threats, consider looking into Check Point’s SmartAwareness Training program.
SmartAwareness utilizes 1,000+ realistic phishing simulations to raise your employees’ knowledge of the most challenging threats in the landscape, such as domain spoofing techniques, typosquatting, and other deceptive tactics.
Empower your workforce today.