Even big organizations fall victim to phishing attacks, but did you know that the scams they respond to can affect you as well?
In the United States, law enforcement agencies must obtain a court-ordered warrant or subpoena before requesting user data from a tech company. However, in extreme scenarios, law enforcement agencies can bypass this process by issuing an Emergency Data Request (EDR). Since the request is urgent, tech companies must act quickly and trust the agency that issued the request. Unfortunately, cybercriminals have begun hijacking law enforcement agency email systems in order to send fake EDRs and gather sensitive user data.
Recent news has revealed that in 2021, Apple, Meta, and other tech companies responded to fake EDRs and provided user data to cybercriminals. This data included users’ addresses, phone numbers, and IP addresses. Now that this data breach is making headlines, we expect cybercriminals to use EDR-related data leaks as a topic in phishing attacks and social media disinformation campaigns.
Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Be cautious of emails or phone calls that claim you or your organization have been affected by these data leaks. Typically, this sort of information is communicated through regular mail.
- Watch out for sensational or shocking headlines about Apple, Meta, or other tech companies that have experienced EDR-related data leaks. These headlines could lead to articles that contain disinformation, or false information designed to intentionally mislead you.
- Protect yourself from potential data breaches by regularly updating your passwords, using multi-factor authentication, and limiting the amount of information you share with social media platforms and online services.
Stop, Look, and Think. Don’t be fooled.
KnowBe4 is the world’s most popular integrated platform for awareness training combined with simulated phishing attacks. Let Keller Schroeder show you how KnowBe4 has helped thousands of organizations just like yours manage the continuing problem of social engineering. Contact us today to learn more.
DISCLAIMER : Any non-technical views expressed are not necessarily those of Keller Schroeder or its employee-owners.
