Social engineering attacks are some of the most common out there. They use information that is often readily available, don’t require much effort, and can effectively bypass most traditional defenses. These factors make it highly attractive to threat actors.
Education is one of the only ways to protect your business from email-based attacks. But this can be difficult, especially when they all sound fairly similar. What’s the difference between phishing vs spoofing? And how can they be effectively stopped?
These are the questions this blog will answer.
What Is Phishing?
Phishing scams are when attackers use fraudulent emails, texts (smishing), or phone calls (voice phishing, or “vishing”) to trick recipients. These are designed to collect sensitive information, such as login credentials, or convince the victim to install malware. Typically the scammer will attempt to mimic a trusted source, such as your bank, coworker, or supplier.
There are two main types of phishing:
- “Wide Net” Phishing: A generic email sent to a large group in the hopes that someone takes the bait. Think about a trawl net, dragging through the water and collecting any fish that happen to be in the way.
- Spear Phishing: A much more targeted approach. Attackers research their victims ahead of time, personalizing the scam to make it more convincing.
What About Spam?
The term “spam”, while often used to mean a phishing scam, does not necessarily refer to a cyber-attack. This is simply any email communication that is unsolicited and unwanted. This can include scams, but also undesirable marketing emails.
What Is Spoofing?
Spoofing is a deception tactic often used in phishing attacks. It is when threat actors use technology to hide their real identity and make the scam more convincing. The exact methodology depends on the attack vector used. For example, in a phishing email, threat actors may change the “From” field so that it appears to be from a legitimate source. This removes one of the biggest giveaways victims typically rely on to identify a scam.
The following are some examples of information that can be spoofed:
- IP addresses
- Email addresses
- Phone numbers
- Caller ID
Spam vs Phishing vs Spoofing: Real-World Examples
- A company sends you a marketing email after you bought their product. They did not ask you for permission, but they also aren’t asking for any sensitive information or telling you to click a link. This is spam.
- You receive an email from someone claiming to be your boss. They claim there’s a problem with an important client account, and want you to send some information over. But when you call your boss to ask for more details, they have no idea what you’re talking about. This is phishing.
- You receive an email from “Microsoft” asking for sensitive account information. The email appears to be coming from the right address, but when you attempt to verify the information through a new email chain, Microsoft tells you not to respond as it’s a scam. This is both phishing and
Read more: What is a Data Loss Prevention Strategy, and How Can It Save Your SMB?
Practical Tips for Defending Your Business
If you’re concerned about these types of attacks, here are some strategies you can implement to prevent them:
Employee Training
Employee awareness is your best defense against all social engineering scams. Teach staff about the techniques threat actors typically use, and which channel they should use to verify requests when they’re uncertain. Reinforce that they should always question a contact attempt that feels off, even if the information appears to be correct. Support your efforts by rewarding employees who successfully report a phishing attempt – even if they have already been tricked by it.
Enable Email Authentication
Email authentication verifies the origin of emails your company receives, using a number of different techniques. This can help reduce the effectiveness of spoofing. The address might look correct, but your email authentication solution will tell you exactly where it really came from.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA acts as an extra line of defense if you or an employee accidentally fall for a phishing scam. It prevents accounts from being accessed without a secondary form of identification, such as a one-time code or physical token. MFA is usually low-cost, low-effort, and high-reward.
Keep Software Up-to-Date
Malware sent during a phishing scam often capitalizes on unpatched vulnerabilities within your software. By automating updates where possible, you can dramatically reduce the risk of a breach occurring.
Arm Your Business Against Cyber Threats
When it comes to social engineering attacks, knowledge is your best defense. A firm understanding of the different types of scam you might face (phishing vs spear phishing vs spoofing, for instance) puts you in a much better position to stop them. Now, it’s time to pass that information along to your staff. The more they know, the less likely they are to fall for the scam and endanger your business.
As 2026 begins, many businesses are preparing their security for a new year full of new threats. If you’re one of them, consider reading this article. It contains 10 easy steps you can take right now to protect your business.
FAQs
What’s a Social Engineering Attack?
A social engineering attack is any cyber threat that leverages human psychology, rather than technological means. This strategy allows malicious actors to easily bypass most traditional defenses, gaining access to your organization.
What’s the Main Difference Between Email Spoofing vs Phishing?
While both involve deception, there is a difference between a spoofing attack vs phishing. Phishing is a false communication sent with the intent to either steal sensitive information or install malware on a user’s device. Spoofing works by disguising information such as email addresses, caller ID, or IP addresses. Note that phishing attacks can also involve spoofing.
Can Spam Emails Be Dangerous Too?
Spam can be dangerous, but isn’t necessarily. A “spam” email is any communication you didn’t ask for and don’t want. This might include cyber-attacks, but can also be a normal marketing email.
How Do I Know if My Business is Being Spoofed?
If you have concerns that your business information may be being used in spoofing, monitor carefully. Watch for bounced emails you didn’t send, or complaints from contacts who say you’re sending strange messages. A good preventative step is to send out an official email clarifying what you will and won’t ask for through this communication channel.
What Should I Do if an Employee Clicks a Phishing Link?
If you suspect an employee has clicked on a phishing link, don’t panic. Disconnect the affected device, change all affected passwords immediately, and inform your IT provider. Monitor sensitive accounts carefully over the next few days.