Mmastodon TechnologyCybersecurity first seen 7 d ago, last 7 d ago, peak #1
Cisco Talos reports ransomware surge via fake IT help desk calls
Original: Cisco Talos sees ransomware rise as attackers pose as IT help desks on phone calls Cisco Talos says ransomware and pre-r
Cisco Talos reports that ransomware and pre-ransomware incidents made up 27% of its incident response cases in the third quarter of 2026. Attackers are calling employees while posing as IT support staff, persuading them to grant remote access to corporate systems. Security teams are being urged to verify internal support requests, as social engineering by phone is becoming a primary entry point for ransomware attacks.
Why now: The rise in phone-based social engineering attacks is a new and concerning tactic that security teams are scrambling to counter.
Cisco TalosIT help desk attackersransomware gangs
Evidence
- Cisco Talos sees ransomware rise as attackers pose as IT help desks on phone calls Cisco Talos says ransomware and pre-ransomware incidents reached 27% of its Q3 2026 response cases. Callers posing as IT support talked staff into allowing remote access, and attackers often… · Secquill@infosec.exchange · 2
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