How Phishing Leads to Other Cyber Attacks? (Part 1)
Phishing is not just a simple cyber attack; it serves as a gateway to more complex and large-scale cyber threats. Cybercriminals use phishing to steal sensitive user information, which can then be exploited for various attacks. In this article, we will explore the major cyber attacks facilitated by phishing and their impact in the Indian context.
Identity Theft
Cybercriminals use phishing emails and messages to steal personal information such as Aadhaar number, PAN card details, and bank account credentials.
Impact:
• Creation of fake social media accounts and profiles.
• Banking fraud and KYC scams.
• Blackmailing and other illegal activities.
Example: In 2025, Mumbai Police uncovered a phishing gang that used fake Aadhaar and PAN cards to open bank accounts and commit financial fraud.
Financial Fraud & Banking Scams
Fraudulent bank emails and SMS messages trick users into providing their login credentials, OTPs, or card details.
Impact:
• Unauthorized transactions and money theft from bank accounts.
• Credit card fraud.
Example: In 2018, Cosmos Bank in Pune suffered a phishing attack, resulting in a loss of ₹94 crores.
Ransomware Attack
Malicious attachments in phishing emails install malware on the victim's system.
Impact: Encryption of system files, forcing victims to pay ransom for access.
Example: In 2021, a major Indian healthcare company faced a ransomware attack, putting millions of patient records at risk.
SIM Swapping Attack
Attackers gather users' personal information and mobile numbers through phishing, and they use this information to request a new SIM card from the mobile service provider.
Impact:
• Complete control over banking and OTP-based services.
• Hacking of social media and other online accounts.
Example: Multiple banking fraud cases in India involved SIM swapping, leading to the theft of millions of rupees.
Keylogging Attack
Phishing emails or fake websites install keylogging software on the victim's system. This software records everything the user types, including passwords and sensitive information.
Impact:
• Theft of banking credentials.
• Unauthorized access to personal and corporate data.
Example: Several government and corporate organizations have suffered keylogging malware attacks, resulting in data breaches.
Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attack
Hackers intercept communication between two parties to steal data.
Impact:
• Interference with banking and financial transactions.
• Theft of sensitive information.
Example: Attackers exploit public Wi-Fi networks to intercept users' banking and social media credentials, gaining unauthorized access.
Social Engineering
Phishing tricks people into voluntarily sharing sensitive information.
Impact:
• Fraudulent calls and emails deceiving people.
• Misuse of personal data.
Example: Fake government schemes: People received phishing links claiming to offer COVID-19 subsidies, free rations, or Prime Minister’s relief funds
Spear Phishing & Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Targeted phishing attacks are used to deceive specific individuals or organizations.
Impact:
• Financial fraud and data theft via business emails.
• High-level executives and companies become prime targets.
Example: In recent years, CEOs and finance departments of multiple Indian companies received fraudulent emails instructing them to make large transactions.
Corporate Espionage & Data Breach
Phishing is used to steal sensitive company data from employees.
Impact:
• Leakage of business secrets.
• Damage to the company's reputation.
Example: In 2021, foreign cyberattacks targeted Indian startups, stealing confidential business data.
How to Stay Safe?
✅ Ignore suspicious emails and messages.
✅ Verify links before clicking.
✅ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
✅ Regularly update passwords.
✅ Report cyber attacks to CERT-In or the cybercrime department.
Awareness and Participation
This blog has provided valuable information about cybersecurity, but it is equally important to recognize your responsibility. Stay vigilant to protect yourself, your family, friends, and your social circle from cyberattacks and cybercrimes. Share this blog with your friends, family, and community to spread awareness. Regularly update yourself on cybersecurity information and make others aware of it. Let’s work together to create a secure digital India.
Call to Action:
Contributors:
Authors: Gagan Deep & Saminder Kaur