How to Stop Phishing Cold

Phishing is cheap, easy, and wildly profitable, making it the #1 tool in a hacker’s toolkit.

Why it matters: Attackers don’t need to break your tech—they just need to trick your people. That human factor is the real vulnerability.

By the numbers

• 68% of data breaches involve human error (Verizon 2024)
• Phishing and credential theft are top breach methods
• These breaches take months to detect and cost a lot

Train smarter, not just harder

Many firms train their employees, yet they still experience breaches.

Fix it:

• Make it role-specific and ongoing
• Use real scenarios and phishing simulations
• Focus on impact, not just identification

Lock it down

Use these tools to stop phishing at the door:

• SPF, DKIM, DMARC: Authenticate legit emails
• Email security tools: Mimecast, Barracuda, Proofpoint
• MFA: A must for all accounts

Don’t set and forget email security

Update settings regularly:

• Use filters and quarantine suspicious emails
• Restrict auto-forwarding
• Monitor for odd activity: strange logins or email spikes

If you’re hit…move FAST

Suspect an email compromise?

Act now:

1. Reset passwords + kill active sessions
2. Delete shady rules or auto-forwards
3. Review logs + get expert help
4. Notify those affected fast

The bottom line: Phishing isn’t going away. But with the right training, tools, and vigilance, your risk can be.

To learn more, watch: The Easiest Way to Hack Your Agency.

Information provided by Ryan Smith.