Beware: Is that Microsoft... or a phishing attempt?
June 8, 2022
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4
min read
Highlights
You can trust Microsoft, right? Well, what if it isn’t really Microsoft at all? Cyber criminals are impersonating the tech giant. Don’t fall for it…
Think twice before opening that email from “Microsoft”.
It’s easy to trust a message that looks like it’s from Microsoft. After all, it’s one of the world’s most recognised and respected tech brands.
But what if it’s not really from Microsoft at all?
Cyber criminals are increasingly impersonating trusted companies to trick people—and Microsoft is currently the most impersonated brand in phishing scams.
Recent research reveals that 36% of brand-related phishing attacks in early 2025 were disguised as Microsoft communications. That’s a staggering figure.
Google and Apple follow closely behind. Together, these three tech giants account for over half of all phishing attempts.
So, what’s going on—and more importantly, how can you protect your business?
What is phishing?
Phishing is when a scammer sends a fake email, text, or message that looks like it’s from a legitimate company you know and trust.
Their aim? To get you to click a link, download a malicious file, or hand over sensitive information—like passwords, card details, or even your full identity.
The consequences can be severe: stolen funds, compromised systems, leaked data—and a major headache for your business.
Phishing is getting smarter
Gone are the days of obvious spelling mistakes and dodgy-looking links. Today’s phishing emails are slick.
Scammers replicate logos, build convincing fake websites, and even spoof email addresses to make it look like the message is genuinely from Microsoft, Google, or Apple.
There’s also been a recent surge in attacks impersonating Mastercard—complete with fake websites designed to steal card details.
It’s a worrying trend, and it shows just how inventive cyber criminals are becoming.
How to spot a fake
The key is to slow down and stay alert.
Legitimate companies like Microsoft won’t pressure you with urgent messages like “Click now or lose access”. That kind of language is a major red flag.
Always inspect the sender’s email address carefully. It might look right at first glance, but a closer look could reveal subtle changes—like “micros0ft.com” instead of “microsoft.com”.
And never click on links in emails you’re unsure about. If in doubt, open your browser and type the official website address manually. It’s a safer route.
Stay protected
Being cautious might feel inconvenient—but it’s nothing compared to the fallout from a cyber attack.
Phishing scams are only going to get more convincing. That’s why it’s essential to:
- Stay vigilant
- Invest in robust cyber security tools
- Use smart protections like multi-factor authentication (requiring two forms of ID to log in)
Remember: the more trusted the brand, the bigger the target!
That email that looks like it’s from Microsoft? It could be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
We’re here to help you and your team stay protected—and alert—to phishing threats. Let’s talk.
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