19 Common Types of Phishing Attacks Explained
Phishing is one of the most persistent and successful cyberattacks worldwide. It involves cybercriminals tricking people into revealing sensitive data such as login credentials, banking details, or personal information.
Because so much of our communication and business happens online, phishing has evolved into multiple forms—each designed to deceive users in a unique way. Understanding these tactics is the first step to building stronger cybersecurity defenses.
Below are 19 types of phishing attacks, real-life examples, and simple tips to identify and prevent them.
1. Spear Phishing
Definition: A personalized phishing attack targeting a specific person or organization.
Example: An employee receives an email about “signing a new company policy” that secretly leads to a fake login page.
Tip: Verify the sender’s email and check for subtle domain changes.
2. Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Definition: Attackers use phone calls pretending to be from legitimate organizations.
Example: Fraudsters called UK lawmakers, claiming to verify sensitive details.
Tip: Hang up on suspicious calls and contact the organization directly.
3. Email Phishing
Definition: Deceptive emails designed to look genuine, often from banks or service providers.
Example: Fake LinkedIn emails were sent to Sony employees to harvest credentials.
Tip: Look for spelling mistakes and hover over links before clicking.
4. HTTPS Phishing
Definition: Fake websites that appear “secure” because they use HTTPS.
Example: Scarlet Widow hackers used HTTPS links to trick users into fake portals.
Tip: The padlock doesn’t guarantee safety—always confirm the full URL.
5. Pharming
Definition: Redirecting users to fake websites by altering DNS settings or planting malicious code.
Example: In 2007, 50+ financial institutions were targeted through DNS manipulation.
Tip: Keep antivirus software active and avoid clicking suspicious links.
6. Pop-Up Phishing
Definition: Fake pop-up alerts claiming security issues or expired services.
Example: Fraudulent AppleCare pop-ups prompting users to renew protection.
Tip: Close pop-ups immediately—don’t enter any details or call displayed numbers.
7. Evil Twin Phishing
Definition: Creating a fake Wi-Fi hotspot that mimics a legitimate network.
Example: Russian GRU agents used fraudulent Wi-Fi access points to steal credentials.
Tip: Avoid entering passwords on public or unknown Wi-Fi networks.
8. Watering Hole Attacks
Definition: Compromising popular websites to target frequent visitors.
Example: The U.S. Council on Foreign Relations site was infected to attack its visitors.
Tip: Regularly update browsers and plug-ins to patch vulnerabilities.
9. Whaling
Definition: Targeting top executives or high-profile individuals.
Example: A hedge fund CEO was tricked by a fake Zoom link, causing an $800K loss.
Tip: Train leadership teams on identifying targeted phishing attempts.
10. Clone Phishing
Definition: Duplicating a legitimate email and inserting a malicious attachment or link.
Example: Hackers replicated a legitimate CEO email thread to steal login data.
Tip: Confirm directly with the sender if a message looks duplicated or unusual.
11. Deceptive Phishing
Definition: Pretending to be from a trusted brand to urge “account verification.”
Example: Fake Apple Support messages asking users to “reactivate” their Apple ID.
Tip: Never click links from unsolicited account warning emails.
12. Social Engineering
Definition: Manipulating people psychologically to gain access to information.
Example: Hackers posing as Chase Bank agents pressured victims into sharing ATM details.
Tip: Pause and verify before reacting to urgent or fear-based messages.
13. Angler Phishing
Definition: Using fake social media accounts to trick users.
Example: Cybercriminals created fake Domino’s Pizza accounts on Twitter to “process refunds.”
Tip: Engage only with verified social accounts that have the blue checkmark.
14. Smishing (SMS Phishing)
Definition: Text messages that encourage users to click malicious links.
Example: Fraudulent American Express messages directing users to fake login pages.
Tip: Delete suspicious texts—real companies rarely request actions by SMS.
15. Man-in-the-Middle (MiTM) Attack
Definition: Intercepting communication between two parties to steal data.
Example: Equifax users had their credentials intercepted due to unsecured HTTPS connections.
Tip: Always use encrypted connections and a VPN on public networks.
16. Website Spoofing
Definition: Building fake websites that mimic legitimate brands.
Example: A fraudulent Amazon site that looked nearly identical to the real one.
Tip: Examine the web address carefully—watch for slight spelling variations.
17. Domain Spoofing
Definition: Using domains or email addresses that closely resemble real ones.
Example: Fake LinkedIn-style websites used to steal professional data.
Tip: Enable DMARC, DKIM, and SPF records for better domain protection.
18. Image Phishing
Definition: Embedding malware or hidden scripts inside images or ads.
Example: The AdGholas campaign hid JavaScript malware inside online images.
Tip: Avoid downloading images or attachments from unfamiliar sources.
19. Search Engine Phishing
Definition: Fake online stores or services that appear in search results.
Example: Fraudulent shopping sites tricking users into entering payment information.
Tip: Buy only from verified retailers and double-check URLs before paying.
Conclusion: Awareness Is the Best Cybersecurity Tool
Phishing is not going away—it’s evolving. As attackers refine their methods, the only real defense is constant awareness and smart digital behavior.
Here’s how to stay safe:
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Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
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Keep your software and browsers updated.
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Think before you click on links or download attachments.
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Conduct regular cybersecurity training for employees.
By recognizing these 19 types of phishing attacks, you can stop threats before they succeed and keep your data—and your organization—safe from harm.
Stay informed. Stay alert. Stay protected.
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