TOAD (Targeted Off-path ADS Delivery) attack is a malicious technique used in digital advertising that aims to deliver fraudulent or unwanted ads to specific users or websites by manipulating the ad delivery process.

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses are increasingly facing a new type of multi-layered phishing attack known as Telephone-Oriented Attack Delivery (TOAD). With approximately 10 million TOAD attacks occurring every month and 67% of businesses globally affected in 2023, it is crucial for organisations to bolster their defences against these sophisticated attacks.

To counteract the growing threat of TOAD attacks, a multi-faceted approach is essential.

**Awareness and Training**

At the forefront of this approach is employee education. Regular security awareness training is necessary to teach employees how to recognise and respond to TOAD attacks. This includes educating them on the tactics used by attackers, such as creating urgency and using scripted call center tactics. Phishing simulations, including callback phishing scenarios, can also be conducted to test employee readiness and help them learn from mistakes.

**Technical Countermeasures**

In addition to awareness and training, technical countermeasures are essential. Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is necessary to protect against unauthorized access attempts that might result from TOAD attacks. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools can be used to monitor devices for unusual behaviour, such as unexpected software installations or communication with known malicious IPs. Call fraud detection systems can also be implemented to detect suspicious phone calls, such as those from VoIP numbers known to be used in TOAD attacks.

**Proactive Measures**

Proactive measures are also crucial in the fight against TOAD attacks. Verifying the identity of callers through secondary channels before divulging sensitive information or taking action is essential. Establishing strict protocols for internal communication can prevent employees from acting on unsolicited calls without proper verification.

**AI and Automation**

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation can also play a significant role in defending against TOAD attacks. Utilizing AI-powered tools to detect and analyze TOAD attacks can help identify patterns and predict future threats. Automated response systems can quickly alert employees and security teams about potential TOAD attacks.

By combining these strategies, businesses can enhance their defences against sophisticated TOAD attacks and reduce the risk of falling victim to these tactics. It is important to remember that staff education needs to be at the heart of a comprehensive strategy to securely defend an organization from TOAD attacks.

Moreover, collaboration and sharing of information with other businesses and industry groups can provide valuable insights into new or emerging threats and defence strategies. As AI lowers the barrier to entry for TOAD attacks, making them more dangerous, staying informed and proactive is key to maintaining cybersecurity.

Victims of TOAD attacks may receive calls or messages from someone claiming to be a colleague, a client, or from a reputable call center. After trust is established, victims are often encouraged to click on a malicious link or download an attachment that bypasses traditional cyber defenses. Establishing verification processes for unsolicited calls requesting sensitive information is, therefore, crucial.

Implementing an incident response plan is also essential to address and mitigate any breaches. A robust strategy for keeping TOADs at bay should also include implementing advanced email security solutions equipped with AI and Machine Learning (ML).

In conclusion, as TOAD attacks continue to evolve, businesses must remain vigilant and proactive in their defence strategies. Regular security audits and updates are necessary to identify vulnerabilities and apply necessary patches. Regular training and simulation exercises are necessary to enable employees to better recognize and respond to TOADs. Businesses must be vigilant of TOAD attacks due to their dual-channel approach and targeting of specific individuals. With a comprehensive strategy in place, businesses can better protect themselves against these sophisticated attacks.

Recognizing the escalating threat of TOAD attacks in the general-news and crime-and-justice sectors, businesses should collaborate and share information about new and emerging threats and defense strategies.
In the realm of finance and technology, a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy for businesses should incorporate proactive measures such as verifying callers' identities through secondary channels and establishing verification processes for unsolicited calls requesting sensitive information.
To reinforce cybersecurity defenses, businesses must implementing AI and automation tools that can detect and analyze TOAD attacks, identify patterns, predict future threats, and automatically alert employees and security teams about potential TOAD attacks.

TOAD (Targeted Off-path ADS Delivery) attack is a malicious technique used in digital advertising that aims to deliver fraudulent or unwanted ads to specific users or websites by manipulating the ad delivery process.