Phishing attacks remain a constant threat for businesses of all sizes, but they can be particularly devastating for small and medium businesses (SMBs). With limited resources and IT expertise, SMBs often become easy targets for sophisticated phishing scams.

These attacks attempt to deceive employees into clicking malicious links or opening infected attachments, compromising sensitive data, or granting unauthorized access to your network. The damage can be immense, leading to financial losses, reputational harm, and operational disruptions.

But fear not, SMBs! Implementing a multi-layered defense can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing attacks. Here’s how a powerful combination of Cisco Secure Email Gateway, Duo’s multi-factor authentication (MFA), and Umbrella’s DNS filtering can help you achieve this:

• Block Phishing Emails at the Gate: Cisco Secure Email Gateway acts as your first line of defense, analyzing incoming emails for suspicious characteristics like unusual senders, malicious URLs, and phishing keywords. It automatically quarantines or blocks these emails before they reach your employees’ inboxes, preventing them from clicking on harmful links or opening infected attachments.
• Add an Extra Layer of Security with MFA: Duo’s MFA comes to the rescue even if a phishing email slips through the first layer. It requires users to provide an additional verification step beyond their password, such as a fingerprint scan or a code sent to their mobile device. This significantly increases the difficulty for attackers to gain unauthorized access, even if they manage to steal a password.
• Block Malicious Websites Before They Load: Umbrella’s DNS filtering acts as a proactive safety net by blocking access to known phishing and malware websites at the DNS level. Even if an employee clicks on a malicious link in a phishing email, they won’t be able to reach the harmful website, effectively stopping the attack.

Phishing No More with DUO and Umbrella:

The Synergistic Effect

The beauty of this multi-layered approach lies in its synergy. While each solution is strong, combining them creates an impenetrable barrier against phishing attacks. Cisco Secure Email Gateway filters out most suspicious emails, Duo’s MFA adds an extra layer of authentication, and Umbrella further blocks access to malicious websites, leaving no room for error.

Additional Tips for SMBs:

• Educate your employees: Regular cybersecurity awareness training helps employees identify and avoid phishing attempts.
• Keep software updated: Patching vulnerabilities in your email client and operating systems is crucial.
• Monitor suspicious activity: Monitor suspicious emails, login attempts, and network activity.
• Have a recovery plan: Be prepared to respond quickly and effectively in a cyberattack.

By implementing a multi-layered defense with Cisco Secure Email Gateway, Duo, and Umbrella and following these additional tips, you can significantly improve your SMB’s cybersecurity posture and protect your business from the ever-evolving threat of phishing attacks. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and a proactive approach can save you from costly and damaging consequences. NextPointe can help you with your cybersecurity by providing products and services and helping you implement the solutions your business needs. Contact us today and get the protection your business deserves.