While malware and ransomware tend to dominate cybersecurity headlines, Fortra’s research shows that nearly 99% of email threats reaching corporate inboxes utilize impersonation rather than malware. Email impersonation is a key component of credential phishing, advance fee fraud, hybrid vishing, and business email compromise schemes. Because email impersonation scams rely on social engineering rather than technology, the barrier to entry for an aspiring cybercriminal is almost non-existent. In this segment, we’ll explore strategies for defending against email impersonation.
Segment Resources: Fortra Cybersecurity Learning Resources
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This segment is sponsored by Fortra. Visit https://securityweekly.com/fortra to learn more about them!
John Wilson has been combating email-based fraud since 2006, when he developed an authentication-based anti-phishing solution as CTO of Brandmail Solutions. John continued his mission to rid the world of email fraud at Agari. As part of their threat intelligence team, John assisted Microsoft and the FS-ISAC with the B54 Citadel botnet takedown by providing data related to Citadel botnet infections and by acting as a declarant in the civil forfeiture action filed in US District Court.
John joined Fortra through the acquisition of Agari in June 2021. In his current role at Fortra, he continues to research email scams and conduct experiments in “active defense”. In early 2023, John again worked with Microsoft, this time on a takedown effort aimed at curbing the illegal use of Fortra’s Cobalt Strike adversary simulation solution.
John holds a B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from MIT. He has spoken at a variety of security conferences including RSA, FS-ISAC, Aviation ISAC, NCFTA Disruption, and the Microsoft Digital Crimes Consortium.
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