3 Cyberthreats You Might Not Have Heard Of

Cybersecurity is no longer just about avoiding obvious malware or phishing emails. Cybercriminals are constantly finding clever new ways to exploit businesses and individuals. At Forth Tech, we help our clients stay ahead of the curve. Here are three cyberthreats you might not have heard of — and how to protect yourself.

1. Fake QR Codes

QR codes are everywhere — from restaurant menus to payment apps — but because of this, cybercriminals are using them for their own malicious purposes. A fake QR code can redirect users to harmful websites, install malware on a device, or steal login credentials.

The danger lies in their convenience: users often scan codes without thinking twice. Attackers can place stickers over legitimate codes in public areas or send fake codes via email or social media. Once scanned, the malware can silently compromise your device.

How to protect yourself:

1. Only scan QR codes from trusted sources.
2. Check URLs carefully before entering credentials.
3. Consider using a QR scanner that previews the link before opening it.

2. Typosquatting

Typosquatting, also known as URL hijacking, is a subtle yet effective cyberattack. Hackers register domains that are slight misspellings of popular websites — for example, gogle.com instead of google.com. Unsuspecting users who mistype a URL can be redirected to a malicious site that steals personal information or installs malware.

This threat is particularly dangerous for businesses that rely on brand recognition. Employees or clients might unknowingly share sensitive data with a typo squatting site, thinking they are interacting with the legitimate company.

How to protect yourself:

1. Double-check URLs before entering login details.
2. Use browser extensions that detect fake websites.
3. Consider registering common misspellings of your own company’s domain to prevent misuse.

3. Call Forwarding Fraud

Call forwarding fraud is an often-overlooked threat that targets mobile phones or VoIP systems. Attackers trick users into enabling call forwarding to premium or international numbers without their knowledge. The result? Unexpected charges on your phone bill and potential access to sensitive business communications.

This scam can happen through phishing messages, malicious apps, or even social engineering over the phone. It’s a reminder that cybersecurity isn’t just digital — your voice communications can be a target too.

How to protect yourself:

1. Never accept unexpected prompts to change call settings.
2. Regularly check your phone and VoIP settings for unknown call forwarding rules.
3. Educate employees about the risks of unsolicited calls or texts requesting configuration changes.

Stay Vigilant with Forth Tech

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics. Even threats that seem obscure, like fake QR codes, typosquatting, and call forwarding fraud, can have serious consequences if ignored. At Forth Tech, we provide proactive IT support and cybersecurity services to protect your business from emerging threats.

Regular staff training, system monitoring, and expert advice can dramatically reduce your risk. If you want to safeguard your business against unseen cyberthreats, get in touch with our team today. Call us on 0333 9000 100 or email info@forthtech.co.uk.