While most of us are familiar with phishing attempts via email, look out for a new kind of phishing email with a twist. Most phishing emails are designed to trick you into clicking on a malicious link or logging into an account on a fraudulent website. As more awareness about the most common phishing emails comes to light, hackers are finding new ways to breach your data.

One of the new ways hackers are tricking unsuspecting induvial into giving out personal information with telephone-oriented attack delivery or…. TOAD attacks. Despite the slightly comical nature of the name, these phishing attempts are smarter than ever.

How Do TOAD Attacks Work?

TOAD attacks look like normal emails from your bank, social media, apple account, etc. The email will instruct you to call a number to verify your account which often fools people into thinking it’s safer. Since it isn’t dependent on a link click, this type of phishing often flies under the radar.

When those who have been targeted by a TOAD Attack call the number it will direct you to the hacker though it will sound like normal customer service. The hacker will then ask you to verify account names, passwords, security questions, and more. While it sounds perfectly normal, the hacker has just gained access to your personal accounts without you clicking on a single thing.

How to Train Employees to Recognize TOAD Attacks

Help your employees recognize this by training them to never call phone numbers in suspicious emails. Always call a publicly listed phone number of the account that supposedly needs verification. Often the caller will be informed that their account doesn’t need verification at all, and the phishing attempt has been thwarted.

The best way to train employees to recognize all types of phishing, including TOAD Attacks, is by providing training through managed IT services. At Computek we provide in-depth training on phishing, including simulated phishing attempts which help employees see just how easy it is to be fooled without any of the risk.

Call Computek at 512-869-1155 or book a quick call here to start training your employees today!