Attpross

Attpross is a hypothetical cybersecurity concept that describes a sophisticated phishing attack. Unlike traditional phishing, which relies on broad distribution and often simple lures, Attpross attacks are characterized by highly personalized and contextually relevant bait. This means attackers gather extensive information about their target, such as professional roles, interests, recent activities, and even personal relationships, to craft an extremely convincing message.

The term "Attpross" is a portmanteau of "attack" and "professional" or "personal," highlighting the tailored nature of the assault. The goal of an Attpross attack is to bypass common security awareness training by exploiting the target's trust and familiarity. The phishing email or message might mimic a colleague, a known vendor, or even a supervisor, referencing specific projects or inside information.

The technical execution of an Attpross attack often involves advanced social engineering techniques and potentially the compromise of legitimate communication channels or accounts to lend authenticity. The payload can range from credential harvesting to malware deployment, aiming to gain access to sensitive corporate data or financial resources. Defending against Attpross requires a multi-layered approach, including robust technical controls, continuous user education on recognizing subtle manipulation, and fostering a culture of security where employees feel comfortable questioning suspicious communications, even if they appear to originate from trusted sources.