Scam Alert: Fake portals, real damage – Protecting your business from Phishing and Cybersquatting

In the world of digital technology and online services, trust is a foundational pillar. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are taking advantage of that trust by impersonating established tech platforms, advertising networks, or SaaS portals to carry out scams that can lead to data breaches, financial loss, and reputational harm.

Whether you’re a tech provider, an adtech platform, or any company operating online, it’s essential to understand how these scams work, and how to stop them.

🕸️ Common tactics used against businesses

• Fake websites (cybersquatting): Fraudsters create lookalike portals that closely resemble legitimate company websites to trick users into entering login credentials or payment information.
• Phishing emails: You might receive emails claiming there’s an issue with your account, urging you to verify login details, update billing information, or act on an urgent security notice. These often redirect to fake domains.
• Invoice and payment fraud: Scammers may impersonate your vendors or service providers (e.g., through fake email accounts) to send altered invoices or request unauthorized wire transfers.
  

🚨 Red flags to watch out for

• Slightly altered URLs: For example, substituting characters (e.g., techsouIogy.com with an uppercase “i” instead of “l” or tappxx.com with a double “x”) or adding hyphens.
• Vague or generic greetings: “Dear user” or “Dear client” instead of using your actual name or company.
• Urgent payment or login requests: Be suspicious of unexpected emails pressuring you to act immediately.
• Unusual sender addresses: Trusted companies communicate from official domains, not free services like Gmail or Hotmail.
  

🔒 Best practices to protect your team

• Use bookmarks or verified links: Always access partner platforms through their official URLs.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds a critical layer of security to your internal systems and platforms.
• Educate your teams: Run awareness campaigns so that staff members across departments can recognize phishing attempts or spoofed communications.
• Always verify through official channels: When in doubt, reach out to your contact or provider directly, not via links in suspicious emails.
  

At Techsoulogy, we work with a variety of companies, including Tappx, and have seen firsthand how these scams can impact businesses across the ecosystem. If something feels off, trust your instincts, and verify before acting.