Beware of Corrupted Email Attachments – It Could Be a Scam
You are scanning your inbox and spot an important email with a Word document attached. It could be an invoice, a message from a supplier, or even a request from a colleague. You open it without thinking twice… and just like that, you have been scammed.
This is exactly what cyber criminals are counting on. They have found a new way to bypass even the most advanced email security filters—this time, using corrupted Microsoft Word files.
It is a clever and dangerous tactic.
How Phishing Scams Work
Phishing (pronounced “fishing”) is when scammers try to trick you into giving away sensitive information, like passwords or bank details. They bait you with an email that looks legitimate, often appearing to be from a bank, a colleague, or a trusted company.
These emails usually contain attachments or links. If you open the attachment or click the link, you could be downloading malware or landing on a fake website designed to steal your details.
Phishing attacks are constantly evolving, and they are now one of the most common ways scammers break into businesses. Email security filters are usually effective at scanning attachments, but corrupted files cannot be properly analysed. This allows them to slip past security and land in your inbox.
How This Scam Works
When you open a corrupted Word file, Microsoft Word will “repair” it, making it look like a normal document. But hidden inside will be a malicious QR code or link that sends you to a phishing site—often a fake Microsoft 365 login page.
If you enter your details, scammers can gain access to your account—and possibly your entire business.
With just one employee’s login credentials, hackers could:
- Steal sensitive customer data
- Lock your team out of critical files
- Send phishing emails from your account to trick your contacts
The Consequences of a Cyber Attack
If scammers infiltrate your business, the damage could be severe. You could face:
- Financial losses from fraud or data theft
- Legal consequences for data breaches
- A damaged reputation that takes years to rebuild
Cyber attacks are getting more sophisticated, but you do not need a degree in cyber security to stay protected.
How to Protect Your Business
The best defence is awareness and caution. Follow these steps to reduce your risk:
- Slow down and think twice before opening attachments or clicking on links
- Be wary of urgent emails—scammers create pressure to make you act without thinking
- Verify suspicious emails by checking directly with the sender or company
- Never trust an attachment or link just because it looks professional
Most importantly, educate yourself and your team about phishing scams, why they are dangerous, and how to recognise the warning signs.
We help businesses like yours stay protected every day. If you would like us to help you too, get in touch today.
