Rising Complexity in Phishing Attacks: Barracuda's Insight on Advanced Email Scams
In a recent report, Barracuda Networks has highlighted the increasing sophistication of phishing attacks and the need for a multi-layered defense strategy. The report, titled the 2025 Threat Spotlight, details the new techniques cybercriminals are employing to bypass security systems.
One such method involves the use of URL-encoding tricks. Attackers are concealing malicious portions of infected links by using the code '%20' and inserting invisible spaces into web addresses. To make these infected URLs appear less suspicious, they are also adding unusual characters and symbols, and even using a 'Unicode' character that resembles a dot but isn't one.
Another technique being used is the Redundant Protocol Prefix method, where URLs are crafted with partially hyperlinked or invalid elements. This makes it more difficult for traditional security controls to spot the malicious links.
The report also reveals that attackers are using a fake CAPTCHA page to mimic legitimacy and circumvent security systems. Phishing emails often contain these malicious links or URLs.
Megharaj Balaraddi, an associate threat analyst at Barracuda Networks, advocates for this multi-layered approach. He emphasizes the importance of security awareness training for employees as a crucial component of effective defense against email-borne threats.
In response to these evolving threats, Barracuda Networks is committed to strengthening its support for partners as trusted security advisors. The company is driving innovation and embracing growth within the channel. AI and machine-learning capabilities are suggested for email gateway and post-delivery security to combat these advanced threats.
Barracuda Networks urges organizations to be vigilant and adapt their defenses to counter these new tactics. By implementing a multi-layered approach and staying informed about the latest threats, organizations can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these sophisticated phishing attacks.
