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MITRE ATT&CK · T1566.004

Spearphishing Voice

MITRE · cited in 12 of our lessons

Explanation

What attackers do. Attackers phone targets, or leave voice messages, pretending to be IT support, a bank or a senior colleague, to persuade them to reveal credentials, approve MFA, install remote access software or call a number back. This Phishing sub-technique, often called vishing, serves Initial Access.

How to defend. Set clear verification procedures for helpdesk password and MFA resets, such as callbacks to known numbers or manager approval. Train staff that IT will not ask for passwords or MFA codes, and give them an easy way to report suspicious calls. Restrict which remote access tools can be installed.

Signs to look for. Look for helpdesk resets followed by sign-ins from new devices, remote access tool installations soon after a phone call, and MFA method changes. A common gap is that phone calls leave no log, so the first evidence is the follow-on activity.

Open the technique on MITRE ATT&CK
The official text
Adversaries may use voice communications to ultimately gain access to victim systems. Spearphishing voice is a specific variant of spearphishing. It is different from other forms of spearphishing in that it employs the use of manipulating a user into providing access to systems through a phone call or other forms of voice communications. Spearphishing frequently involves social engineering techniques, such as posing as a trusted source (ex: Impersonation) and/or creating a sense of urgency or alarm for the recipient. All forms of phishing are electronically delivered social engineering. In this scenario, adversaries are not directly sending malware to a victim vice relying on User Execution for delivery and execution. For example, victims may receive phishing messages that instruct them to call a phone number where they are directed to visit a malicious URL, download malware, or install adversary-accessible remote management tools (Remote Access Tools) onto their computer. Adversaries may also combine voice phishing with Multi-Factor Authentication Request Generation in order to trick users into divulging MFA credentials or accepting authentication prompts.

© The MITRE Corporation. This work is reproduced and distributed with the permission of The MITRE Corporation (MITRE ATT&CK®).

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