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What is a Phishing Simulation?

The primary objective of using phishing simulations is to assess the susceptibility of employees to phishing attacks and to educate them on how to identify and respond to such threats effectively.
Defend against image-based phishing attacks

Phishing Simulation Explained

Phishing simulation is the process of using a phishing simulator to mimic real-world phishing attacks by sending simulated phishing emails to test targeted recipients within an organization. The primary objective of using phishing simulation testing (PST) is to assess the susceptibility of employees to phishing attacks and to educate them on how to identify and respond to such threats effectively.

Phishing simulators are essential for several reasons:

  1. Employee Awareness: Phishing simulators help raise awareness among employees about the dangers of phishing attacks, enabling them to recognize and report suspicious emails.
  2. Continuous Training: By simulating various types of phishing attacks, simulators provide continuous training to employees, improving their ability to identify and handle potential threats.
  3. Testing Incident Response: Simulators allow organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of their incident response plans and make necessary adjustments to minimize potential risks.
  4. Compliance: Many industries require regular security training and assessments for compliance purposes. Phishing simulators serve as an effective tool for meeting these requirements.

How Does Phishing Simulation Testing Work?

Phishing simulators typically operate in the following manner:

  1. Email Template Selection: Administrators can choose from a wide range of pre-designed phishing email templates, or create custom emails, that resemble actual emails that employees may receive from legitimate sources. These templates often include common phishing tactics such as malicious links, attachments, or requests for sensitive information.
  2. Target Selection: Administrators select the recipients for the simulated phishing campaign. This may include specific individuals, teams, departments,  or even the entire organization.
  3. Campaign Launch: The phishing simulator sends the selected emails to the specified recipients. The emails contain tracking mechanisms that record recipients' interactions, such as clicking on links or opening attachments.
  4. Data Collection and Analysis: The phishing simulator gathers data on employee actions, such as whether they clicked on links, provided sensitive information, or reported a phishing attempt. The data is then analyzed to determine the organization's overall vulnerability to phishing attacks.
  5. Reporting and Feedback: The simulator generates detailed reports on the results of the campaign, allowing administrators to identify areas where additional training or security measures may be necessary. Feedback is also provided to employees, reinforcing their awareness of phishing threats and educating them on best practices to avoid future attacks.

 

How to effectively use a Phishing Simulator

To maximize the benefits of a phishing simulator, organizations should consider the following best practices:

  • Customize Simulations: Tailor phishing simulations to resemble real-world threats specific to your industry or organization. This will ensure that employees are prepared for the most relevant risks they may encounter.
  • Schedule Regular Campaigns: Conduct phishing simulations at regular intervals to reinforce employee training and maintain awareness. Randomizing the schedule can help prevent employees from becoming complacent or anticipating when a simulated attack may occur.
  • Encourage Reporting: Cultivate a security-conscious culture within your organization by encouraging employees to report suspicious emails or incidents. Provide clear reporting guidelines and ensure that employees feel comfortable reporting potential threats without fear of negative consequences.
  • Integrate with Security Awareness Training: Combine phishing simulations with comprehensive security awareness training programs to provide employees with a well-rounded understanding of potential threats and how to mitigate them.
  • Assess and Adapt: Review the results of each phishing simulation campaign and use the insights to fine-tune future simulations, identify areas where additional training is required for each individual, and update incident response plans as needed.

    By implementing phishing simulators and following these best practices, organizations can significantly reduce their vulnerability to phishing attacks, strengthen their overall cybersecurity posture, and foster a security-conscious culture.

 

IRONSCALES uses a phishing simulator powered by AI and real-world threat data

IRONSCALES is a comprehensive email security solution that emphasizes the importance of phishing simulation testing and security awareness training. The platform not only delivers robust email protection but also incorporates advanced threat protection and artificial intelligence to improve its phishing defense capabilities. Here's why IRONSCALES is an excellent choice for organizations seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture:

  1. AI-Driven Phishing Simulation: IRONSCALES utilizes artificial intelligence to generate realistic and customized phishing campaigns that closely mimic real-world threats. This sophisticated approach ensures that employees are exposed to the latest and most relevant attack scenarios, preparing them to identify and respond to actual phishing attempts.

  2. Integrated Security Awareness Training: Alongside phishing simulations, IRONSCALES offers comprehensive security awareness training that educates employees on a wide range of cybersecurity topics and best practices. This integrated approach empowers employees to recognize and mitigate various types of cyber threats effectively.

  3. User-friendly Reporting and Metrics: IRONSCALES provides detailed reports and analytics on phishing simulation results and employee performance, allowing administrators to identify areas for improvement and tailor subsequent training efforts accordingly.

  4. Self-learning AI using Human Insights: As employees successfully use the phishing report button, the IRONSCALES artificial intelligence gathers insights from these interactions, improving its detection capabilities and threat intelligence. This continuous learning process enhances the platform's overall effectiveness in identifying and neutralizing phishing attacks.

  5. Seamless Integration: IRONSCALES easily integrates with existing email infrastructure, such as Office 365, Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), and Microsoft Exchange, providing seamless deployment and ensuring that your organization's email security remains strong.

By choosing IRONSCALES, organizations can benefit from a powerful email security solution that emphasizes phishing simulation testing and security awareness training while harnessing the power of AI-powered advanced threat protection. This comprehensive approach addresses organizations' phishing simulator needs and bolsters their overall cybersecurity posture.

Learn more about IRONSCALES phishing simulation testing solution here.

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Featured Content

AI in Email Security

This comprehensive Osterman Research study explores the evolving landscape of AI-driven threats and innovative solutions implemented to stay ahead.

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Gartner® Email Security Market Guide

This guide gives email security experts an exclusive access to Gartner® research to ensure their existing solution remains appropriate for the evolving landscape.

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Defending the Enterprise from BEC

Data shows organizations deploy defense-in-depth approaches ineffective at addressing BEC attacks. Discover truly effective strategies in this report.

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