Microsoft, Google, Spotify Top Phishing Targets in Q2 2025, Check Point Warns
A new report from Check Point Research has sounded the alarm on a surge in global phishing scams, with Microsoft, Google, and Spotify emerging as the most impersonated brands in Q2 2025 (April–June). The findings highlight a growing threat to digital users worldwide, including in Nigeria, where reliance on tech platforms makes businesses and individuals prime targets for cybercriminals.
Key Findings from Check Point’s Report
The Check Point Research Q2 2025 Brand Phishing Report revealed that Microsoft led as the most impersonated brand, accounting for 25% of all phishing attempts globally. Google followed at 11%, with Apple in third at 9%. Notably, Spotify reentered the top 10 for the first time since Q4 2019, securing fourth place with 6% of phishing activity, signaling a shift toward targeting entertainment and streaming platforms. Omer Dembinsky, Data Research Manager at Check Point Software, commented, “The resurgence of Spotify and the surge in travel-related scams, especially during the Northern Hemisphere’s holiday season, show how phishing attacks are adapting to user behavior and seasonal trends.”
The technology sector remains the most targeted, with cybercriminals exploiting trust in cloud-based tools like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, widely used in Nigeria by corporations, schools, and startups. These scams aim to steal sensitive data, such as login credentials and financial information, posing significant risks to digital security.
One prominent campaign targeted Spotify users with fake login and payment pages that mimicked the platform’s branding. Unsuspecting users were prompted to enter their credentials, only to be redirected to fraudulent payment portals harvesting credit card details. This tactic reflects a broader trend of cybercriminals targeting entertainment platforms as streaming services gain popularity.
The travel sector also saw a sharp rise in phishing, with over 700 Booking.com-themed domains detected in Q2 2025. These domains, often using formats like “confirmation-id**.com,” incorporated personalized details such as names and contact information to appear legitimate, making them harder to detect. This personalized approach marks a new level of sophistication in phishing techniques.
Nigeria’s Growing Vulnerability
In Nigeria, the widespread adoption of digital platforms and online transactions has made businesses and individuals increasingly susceptible to phishing attacks. The report underscores the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures, including email filtering, employee training, and multi-factor authentication (MFA), to protect organizations. For individuals, Check Point advises extreme caution when clicking links or entering credentials, particularly in unsolicited emails, urgent messages, or unfamiliar websites.
Staying Safe in a Digital World
As phishing remains one of the most scalable and damaging cyber threats, vigilance is critical. Dembinsky emphasized, “Cybercriminals continue to exploit the trust users place in well-known brands,” urging users to verify email sources and avoid suspicious links. With phishing tactics evolving, adopting advanced security tools and staying informed can help Nigerians and global users stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
What steps are you taking to protect yourself from phishing scams? Share your thoughts in the comments
