Beware: Hackers targeting email service providers

Hackers are now infiltrating email service providers (ESPs) to access client mailing lists of small and medium enterprises, which are then used for massive-scale phishing attacks targeting the customers, according to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky.In a statement on Wednesday, Kaspersky said these cybercriminals are sending emails that appear to be authentic to trick recipients into providing personal information.

ESP is a service enabling companies to send out email marketing campaigns to subscribers who agreed to be included in the mailing lists.

Kaspersky noted these hackers also pretend to be an ESP to seem legitimate and earn the trust of customers.

“Using a reliable email service provider is important when it comes to your business’ reputation and safety. However, some sneaky scammers learned how to mimic reliable services—so it is crucial to check the emails that you receive properly, and, for better protection, install a reliable cybersecurity solution,” Kaspersky security expert Roman Dedenok said.

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A recent survey commissioned by cybersecurity firm Fortinet and conducted by International Data Corp. revealed that phishing is among the top cyberthreats in the country, with over 50 percent of the respondents flagging it.

Among the common phishing schemes are text scams, which contain suspicious links leading to fake websites where unsuspecting victims will be asked to input personal data. INQ