By: Karrie Westmoreland
Phishing attacks have evolved significantly, with cybercriminals exploiting trusted platforms like Microsoft SharePoint and IT ticketing systems such as Click-Fix to deceive users. These attacks prey on human psychology, using urgency and familiarity to trick employees into revealing credentials or installing malware.
This article explores how SharePoint and Click-Fix phishing work, their dangers, and how individuals and organizations can detect and defend against them.
Overview of Phishing Attacks
Phishing is a type of cyber-attack where attackers impersonate legitimate entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or installing malware. These attacks often use email, social media, or other communication channels to deceive users.
What is SharePoint and Click-Fix Phishing?
SharePoint Phishing Attacks:
Microsoft SharePoint is widely used for document sharing and collaboration, making it a prime target for attackers. In a SharePoint phishing attack, cybercriminals send fake emails or links that impersonate SharePoint notifications, tricking users into entering their Microsoft 365 credentials on a counterfeit login page.
How SharePoint Phishing Attacks Work:
- The victim receives an email that appears to be from SharePoint, often containing subject lines like:
- "New Document Shared with You"
- "Important Update: Review Your Access to Shared Files"
- The email contains a link leading to a fake SharePoint login page.
- Once the victim enters their credentials, attackers gain access to the company’s SharePoint environment, potentially stealing sensitive documents or launching further attacks.
Click-Fix Phishing Attacks
Click-Fix (or SeeClickFix) is a popular IT and municipal issue-tracking platform. Cybercriminals exploit this by mimicking IT support requests to steal login credentials or install malware.
How Click-Fix Phishing Attacks Work:
- Attackers send fake IT support emails claiming a ticket requires immediate action, often saying:
- "Your IT Ticket Has Been Updated – Click Here to View"
- "Urgent: Your Request for Support Needs Additional Information"
- The link redirects the user to a malicious website that either:
- Asks for login credentials, enabling attackers to hijack IT systems.
- Installs malware or keyloggers on the victim’s device.
How to Detect SharePoint and Click-Fix Phishing Attacks
Suspicious Email Indicators:
- Unusual Sender Address: Attackers may slightly alter legitimate email addresses (e.g., support@micros0ftsharepoint.com).
- Urgent or Threatening Language: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency, such as "Immediate Action Required!"
- Generic Greetings: A legitimate SharePoint or Click-Fix email usually includes your name, whereas phishing emails may say "Dear User."
- Unexpected Attachments or Links: Never open unexpected file attachments or links, especially if they request credentials.
Fake Login Pages
- Look for HTTPS & Correct Domain: Microsoft SharePoint login pages always use login.microsoftonline.com.
- Check for Small Visual Differences: Phishing sites may have slightly different fonts, logos, or layouts.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Even if you mistakenly enter credentials, MFA can prevent unauthorized access.
IT Ticketing System Red Flags
- Unexpected IT Support Requests: If you didn’t submit a request, be cautious about emails saying your ticket needs attention.
- Hover Over Links Before Clicking: Hover your mouse over links to reveal the actual destination URL. If it looks suspicious, don’t click.
- Verify with IT Directly: If in doubt, contact your IT department via official channels instead of clicking links in the email.
How to Defend Against These Attacks
Security Awareness Training
- Educate employees on how phishing works and how to recognize suspicious emails.
- Conduct regular phishing simulations to test employee awareness.
Implement Strong Authentication Measures
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Requires an extra verification step (e.g., mobile app approval) to log in.
- Password Managers: Automatically detect fake login pages and prevent credential entry.
Email Security & Filtering
- Use AI-powered email filters (e.g., Proofpoint, Mimecast) to block phishing attempts.
- Mark external emails with warning banners to alert employees of potential scams.
Network and Endpoint Security
- Deploy Zero Trust security models where all access is continuously verified.
- Use Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions like CrowdStrike or SentinelOne to detect and block malware.
Report and Respond to Phishing Attempts
- Train employees to report phishing emails to the IT department.
- Regularly update incident response plans to quickly mitigate attacks.
SharePoint and Click-Fix phishing attacks are rising as cybercriminals exploit trusted platforms to deceive users. By staying vigilant, using MFA, security tools, and employee training, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks.
Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility—always verify, never click blindly, and stay informed!
