Email remains one of the most common entry points for cybercriminals, posing significant risks to businesses of all sizes. Understanding the most frequent email security breaches can help you take proactive measures to protect your organisation from potential threats and keep your business operational. Read on to find out how.
Email Security by the Numbers
In a recent study from Paubox, called “The Healthcare Email Security Report.”
· 27% of IT Leaders feel secure in avoiding IT breaches in 2025.
· 43.3% of healthcare breaches involved Microsoft 365.
· Only 5% of known phishing attacks are reported by employees.
· 264% increase in ransomware attacks on healthcare organisations.
(Source: Paubox Healthcare Email Security Report 2025)
These statistics highlight the severity of email security threats, not just within healthcare but across all industries. The reliance on email for critical communication makes businesses in every sector vulnerable to cyberattacks. From financial institutions to retail and manufacturing, any organisation that handles sensitive data can fall victim to phishing, ransomware, or business email compromise. As threats continue to evolve, businesses must take a proactive approach to email security to prevent costly breaches and operational disruptions.
1. Phishing attacks: Cybercriminals send deceptive emails that appear legitimate, tricking employees into revealing sensitive information or clicking malicious links. Despite increasing awareness, research shows that only about 5% of known phishing attacks are reported by employees, leaving organisations highly vulnerable.
2. Business email compromise: BEC attacks involve impersonating high-ranking executives or trusted partners to request fraudulent transactions. These attacks are highly targeted and can result in substantial financial losses.
3. Malware and ransomware infections: Malicious attachments or links can install malware on company systems, leading to data theft or encryption of files for ransom. These attacks often spread through seemingly innocent emails.
4. Email spoofing and impersonation: Spoofing occurs when cybercriminals forge email headers to make messages appear as though they come from trusted sources. This tactic is often used in phishing and BEC attacks, tricking employees into responding to fraudulent requests.
5. Misdelivery of Emails Simple human errors, such as sending an email to the wrong recipient, can expose confidential data. Implementing email security tools can help mitigate this risk.
How to Strengthen Your Email Security:
· Train employees to recognise phishing attempts and suspicious emails.
· Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for email accounts.
· Use advanced email security solutions to detect and block threats.
· Implement strict verification protocols for financial transactions.
· Deploy email authentication protocols such as DMARC, SPF, and DKIM to prevent spoofing attacks.
By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of email breaches and safeguard your business from cyber threats.
At Shoothill, we provide cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions tailored to protect your organisation from the ever-evolving landscape of email threats. Our expert team can help you implement industry-leading security measures to keep your data safe. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you fortify your email security.
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