Hackers Bypass Email Gateways with Simple Phone Number Trick

In a worrying trend, hackers have found a way to bypass traditional email gateways using a technique known as telephone-oriented attack delivery (TOAD). This method involves sending emails with no malicious links or attachments, but instead, only a phone number as the payload. The simplicity of this approach has proven to be effective, as it evades traditional security measures and tricks victims into divulging sensitive information.

According to recent reports, TOAD emails have been on the rise, with attackers using this tactic to bypass email gateways and reach their intended targets. The emails typically contain a sense of urgency, prompting the recipient to call the provided phone number. Once the victim makes the call, they are often asked to provide sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial information.

The TOAD technique is particularly concerning, as it exploits the human element of security. Email gateways are designed to detect and block malicious emails containing links or attachments, but they are not equipped to handle emails with only a phone number as the payload. This means that TOAD emails can slip through the cracks, reaching the intended target and increasing the risk of a successful attack.

The use of TOAD emails highlights the need for organizations to implement additional security measures to protect against this type of attack. This includes educating employees on the risks of TOAD emails and providing them with the necessary training to identify and report suspicious emails.

In addition to employee education, organizations should also consider implementing advanced security measures, such as behavioral analysis and machine learning-based detection tools. These tools can help identify and block TOAD emails, reducing the risk of a successful attack.

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for organizations to stay one step ahead of attackers. This includes staying informed about the latest threats and tactics, such as TOAD emails, and implementing the necessary security measures to protect against them.

In the coming months, it is likely that we will see an increase in TOAD email attacks, as hackers continue to exploit this vulnerability. However, by implementing the necessary security measures and educating employees, organizations can reduce the risk of a successful attack and protect their sensitive information.

As the security community continues to monitor the situation, it is clear that TOAD emails are a significant threat that requires immediate attention. By working together, organizations can stay ahead of the threats and protect their sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands.

In the meantime, individuals and organizations should remain vigilant and be cautious when receiving emails with only a phone number as the payload. If an email seems suspicious or prompts you to call a phone number, it is best to err on the side of caution and delete the email or report it to the relevant authorities.