Increase in Phishing Attempts by 300% Observed in the Year 2018
A new report from security company Radware, "The Retail and eCommerce Threat Landscape Report" (October 2018), has revealed a concerning trend: an increase in cyberattacks on retailers and their customers.
The report suggests that cybercriminals are increasingly using digital and social channels to target retailers. This shift may be attributed to the increased use of these channels by retailers for revenue opportunities.
One of the key findings of the report is a 297% increase in the number of phishing websites targeting online retail businesses and their customers. In Q3 of 2018, there was an average of 23 phishing sites for each retail company, according to the report. This is a significant jump from the average of 5.9 phishing attacks per retail company in 2017.
The report does not mention any specific retail companies that have been targeted by these phishing attacks. It also does not offer solutions or recommendations for retailers to protect themselves against these attacks.
The report further highlights a 469% spike in suspicious applications in Q4 2017. Additionally, there was a 345% increase in fake social media profiles in Q4 2017. This could potentially be used to spread malware or gather sensitive customer information.
The report also shows a 278 percent rise in stolen goods listed on black markets for resale. This suggests that not only are retailers being targeted, but their customers are also at risk.
The need for increased cybersecurity will be amplified in the future due to the rising trend in cyberattacks. In fact, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to increase significantly in the future. Salaries for cybersecurity positions are projected to rise toward the stratosphere due to the increased demand.
While the report does not specify the exact number of retail companies included in the study, it underscores the importance of cybersecurity for all online retail businesses. As more and more shopping moves online, it is crucial for retailers to take proactive measures to protect their customers' data and their own systems.
