Cybercriminals are getting smarter with their attacks. They’re using artificial intelligence to create more convincing messages and targeting small and medium businesses more than ever.
But, once you know what to look for, spotting these scams becomes much easier.
Today, we’re talking about the difference between phishing vs. smishing. Both tactics target your employees and sensitive data, but they use different methods to steal information and compromise your security.
Phishing vs. Smishing: What’s the Difference?
Phishing attacks come through email. These fake messages try to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information. The emails often look like they’re from trusted companies, banks, or even your coworkers.
Smishing works the same way, but it happens through text messages instead of email. (The name is a portmanteau of “SMS” and “phishing.”) These text-based attacks often feel more urgent, simply because people tend to read text messages faster than emails.
Both attacks want the same thing: your login details, credit card numbers, or access to your business systems. The main difference between phishing vs. smishing is the delivery method.
Key Signs of Phishing Attacks
Identifying phishing emails gets easier when you know the warning signs.
Watch out for messages that create a false sense of urgency. Phrases like “Your account will be closed in 24 hours” or “Immediate action required” are red flags.
Check the sender’s email address carefully. Scammers often use addresses that look similar to legitimate companies but have small spelling mistakes. For example, “amazom.com” instead of “amazon.com.”
Poor grammar and spelling mistakes still happen in phishing emails. While AI tools have made this less common in phishing vs. smishing, be on the lookout for obvious errors that legitimate companies wouldn’t make – especially if the email is from a large company.
Generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of your actual name often signal a phishing attempt. Real companies usually use your name in their communications.
Links in suspicious emails deserve extra attention. Hover over them without clicking to see where they really lead. If the destination doesn’t match what the email claims, don’t click.
Spotting Smishing vs. Phishing: Text Message Red Flags
Smishing attacks share many similarities with email phishing but have their own warning signs.
Unknown numbers sending urgent messages about your accounts should raise immediate suspicion. These messages often claim you’ve won prizes, need to verify account information, or have suspicious activity on your accounts. They usually include links that lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.
Many smishing attempts use shortened URLs that hide their true destination. Be cautious of any text with links you can’t verify before clicking.
Banking and financial institutions rarely (if ever) send text messages asking for sensitive information. If you receive one claiming to be from your bank, call them directly using the number on your card or statement (not the one that sent the message).
How AI Makes Modern Scams More Dangerous
While we’re talking about phishing vs. smishing, it’s important to mention the way that artificial intelligence has changed the game for cybercriminals. AI tools help scammers create more convincing emails and text messages with proper grammar and professional-looking formats. They can now do this in minutes, en masse, without even having to be near their computer.
AI also helps criminals research their targets better. They can gather information from social media and company websites to create highly personalized attacks that feel legitimate.
However, an updated approach to cybersecurity – one that involves advanced detection systems and employee training – can help defend against these evolving threats.
Building a Strong Phishing vs. Smishing Defense
Recognizing these attacks becomes second nature with practice. Regular cybersecurity training helps your team develop the instincts needed to spot suspicious messages quickly.
Short, frequent training keeps security awareness fresh in everyone’s minds. Monthly training sessions work better than annual workshops. Include real examples of recent phishing and smishing attempts in your area, and make sure everyone knows the specific procedures for reporting suspicious messages.
Practice exercises where you send simulated phishing emails help employees apply what they’ve learned. Use these tests to identify areas where your team needs more support.
How to Handle Phishing Attacks When You Spot Them
Quick action matters when you identify a suspicious message.
- Don’t click any links or download attachments, even to “investigate” further.
- Report the message to your IT team or security provider Forward phishing emails and take screenshots of smishing texts before deleting them.
- If you accidentally clicked a link or entered information, change your passwords immediately and notify your IT support team. They can check for compromised accounts and take protective measures.
- Document what happened and when. This information helps your security team understand attack patterns and improve defenses. It also helps with any necessary reporting to clients or regulatory bodies.
Don’t Let Phishing Fears Stop You from Acting
The difference between phishing vs. smishing might seem simple, but both pose serious risks to your business. While you can’t prevent every attack attempt, you can make your business a harder target that criminals will likely skip.
Stay vigilant, keep learning, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when you need it. Your business’s security depends on everyone working together to spot and stop these threats before they cause damage.
Schedule a phishing awareness consultation with Dennis to get started.
