What are the best practices to prevent email compromise in businesses?

Businesses can follow several best practices to prevent email compromise and avoid falling victim to phishing schemes:

1. Educate employees: Provide regular training on recognizing phishing attempts, understanding email security protocols, and emphasizing the importance of verifying unexpected emails or requests.

2. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA): Implement MFA for email accounts and other sensitive systems to add an extra layer of security in case passwords are compromised.

3. Keep software and systems updated: Regularly update software, antivirus programs, and email security measures to protect against known vulnerabilities that phishers may exploit.

4. Implement email authentication protocols: Use technologies like SPF (Sender Policy Framework), DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail), and DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) to prevent domain spoofing and unauthorized emails.

5. Encourage a security-conscious culture: Foster a workplace environment where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious emails and security concerns without fear of reprisal.

6. Monitor email traffic: Use email security tools to monitor incoming and outgoing email traffic for signs of phishing attacks or other suspicious activities.

7. Implement strong password policies: Enforce complex password requirements and regular password changes to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to email accounts.

8. Enable email filtering: Use email filtering tools to block known phishing emails, malicious attachments, and suspicious links before they reach employees’ inboxes.

9. Conduct simulated phishing exercises: Test employees’ awareness and response to phishing attacks by conducting simulated phishing campaigns to identify areas