Why the MSP Industry Needs to Share Phishing Attempts

In today’s digital landscape, where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, managed service providers (MSPs) play a critical role in safeguarding businesses against cyberattacks. Phishing attempts have become one of the most common and dangerous tactics employed by cybercriminals, making it essential for the MSP industry to not only detect and prevent these attacks but also effectively communicate the risks to their clients through their digital marketing efforts.

While many industry professionals have been discussing the importance of cybersecurity awareness and the need to share phishing incidents, a significant opportunity remains untapped: the power of visuals. 

Here’s why the MSP industry should leverage the visual impact of phishing attempt images to better assist clients, attract leads and strengthen their overall cybersecurity strategy.

The MSP Industry: Harnessing the Visual Advantage

The adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” holds true in the world of cybersecurity. MSPs deal with phishing attempts on a daily basis, but the majority fail to recognize the potential of visual evidence. 

When MSPs capture and share images of actual phishing attempts, it transforms an abstract concept into a tangible reality for clients. A well-crafted image of a deceptive email, a fake login page or a suspicious attachment resonates more deeply than a mere description. 

Visuals make the threat immediate and personal, compelling clients to take action to protect their business.

Take, for example, this phishing attempt posted by the CEO of Dragos, a cybersecurity firm. An employee received a text-based phishing attempt that isn’t uncommon nowadays. 

Scammers will try to target new employees, pretending to be C-suite executives, who need urgent help with a task to try to gain gift cards, financial information or protected company information, all while leveraging a power structure and the knowledge that the new employee usually won’t have the CEO’s phone number.

Strengthening Client Understanding

Phishing attempts are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often mimicking legitimate communications and websites. For clients, it can be challenging to differentiate between a genuine email and a phishing scam. 

When MSPs share actual images of phishing attempts, they help their clients recognize common tactics used by cybercriminals. These visuals provide a clear reference point, enabling clients to spot potential red flags and make informed decisions when handling their emails and online interactions. 

This heightened awareness empowers clients to become active participants in their organization’s cybersecurity, reducing the risk of falling victim to phishing attempts.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap

Sharing visuals of phishing attempts also bridges the knowledge gap between MSPs and clients. Many businesses lack in-depth technical expertise, making it difficult for them to fully comprehend the intricacies of cybersecurity threats. 

Visual evidence simplifies the explanation process, making it easier for MSPs to communicate the severity and potential consequences of phishing attempts. Instead of relying solely on technical jargon, MSPs can use images to illustrate the danger in a way that is easily understandable and relatable for clients.

Boosting Marketing Efforts

In an era where competition in the MSP industry is fierce, leveraging visual evidence of phishing attempts can give your marketing strategy a significant edge. While many MSPs are discussing phishing in their content, few are utilizing the power of visuals.

Sharing compelling images of actual phishing emails and websites in your blog posts, social media and marketing materials demonstrates your expertise and commitment to transparency. Prospective clients are more likely to engage with content that presents a real-world, visual representation of the threats they face. 

Think of scam images as a way to enhance your credibility and position your company as a thought leader in the MSP industry. We also recommend developing a StoryBrand website to create a brand story for your MSP that engages and sells. Much like clarifying to your audience what phishing explicitly looks like, having a clear marketing message increases understanding and the likelihood of conversion.

Imagine a potential client visiting your website and being immediately immersed in a narrative that resonates with their challenges and aspirations. A StoryBrand website makes your brand’s offerings concrete and relatable. It addresses your audience’s pain points and positions your solutions as the answers they’ve been seeking.

Building Trust and Rapport

MSPs have a unique opportunity to build trust and rapport with their clients by sharing visuals of phishing attempts. When you proactively share real-life examples of phishing scams, you show that you are invested in your clients’ security. 

This transparency fosters a stronger partnership and highlights your dedication to their protection. Clients are more likely to trust an MSP that goes the extra mile to educate and empower them against cyber threats.

What Should I Share? Guidelines for Sharing Visuals

While sharing images of phishing attempts can be a powerful marketing and educational tool, MSPs should approach this practice responsibly and ethically. Here are four simple guidelines to consider:

1. Anonymize and protect: Ensure that any images shared do not reveal sensitive information or compromise the privacy of individuals or organizations.
2. Educational context: Use visuals in an educational context, focusing on the techniques employed by cybercriminals and how to identify phishing attempts.
3. Consent and permissions: Obtain explicit consent from clients before sharing any images related to their organization’s phishing incidents.
4. Focus on prevention: Emphasize the importance of preventative measures and provide actionable tips for clients to enhance their cybersecurity awareness.

Differentiating Your Company in the MSP Industry

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, embracing visual storytelling is a strategic move that sets your MSP apart as an industry leader committed to securing businesses against the ever-growing threat of phishing attacks. 

At BigOrange Marketing, we’re passionate about guiding MSPs on the path to success, and utilizing visual evidence is just one of the many ways we help you stand out and make a lasting impact.

Want to learn more about us? We provide websites and complete outsourced digital marketing plans to help you get found, get results and get your time back. 

Schedule a non-salesy call with our marketing strategists for a better way to get leads and start growing your business today. And, if you want another MSP marketing resource, we’ve got 21 marketing ideas for lead generation; absolutely free.