Phishing attacks — where cybercriminals disguise themselves as trustworthy sources to steal sensitive information — are a growing concern for organizations, churches, schools and hospitals within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. We often cherish a sense of safety and trust in our interactions. This sense of security, while a testament to our faith and community spirit, can inadvertently open doors to unexpected threats.
Cybercriminals, aware of our trust in each other, can cunningly disguise themselves as familiar and trustworthy individuals. It’s a stark reminder of the Biblical counsel in Matthew 7:15, cautioning us against wolves in sheep’s clothing. Just as these wolves disguise their true nature, these malicious actors can impersonate those we know and trust, seeking to enter our secure spaces. Your organization’s role in handling personal and financial data makes it a prime target for such deceptive tactics. Understanding and preparing against these threats is crucial in safeguarding the integrity and trust that are central to your mission.In this context, our vigilance becomes an act of stewardship and care for our community. Here are key steps your organization can take to fortify against phishing attacks, consider the following industry best practices:
- Employee Cybersecurity Awareness Training: Regular and ongoing training helps keep users alert to risks and updated on the latest threats. Monthly training sessions are recommended, utilizing current events and threats for relevance.
- Simulation: Perform simulated phishing attacks to provide real-life scenarios for employees, reinforcing their training and readiness.
- DNS Filtering: Use DNS filtering tools to restrict access to or identify young, spoofed, or malicious websites, adding an extra layer of defense.
- Email Security Protocols: Implement email authentication protocols like DKIM, DMARC, and SPF to verify email senders and protect against impersonation attempts.
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Use multi-factor authentication to enhance credential security, ensuring that stolen user credentials alone are not enough for unauthorized access.
