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Upcoming ACA Reporting Deadlines
December 29, 2023
Employers subject to Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 or 6056 should prepare to comply with reporting deadlines in early 2024. For the 2023 calendar year, covered employers must:
- Furnish statements to individuals by March 1, 2024 (an alternative method of furnishing statements to covered individuals is available in certain situations); and
- File paper returns with the IRS by Feb. 28, 2024, or April 1, 2024, if filing electronically. Beginning in 2024, employers that file at least 10 returns during the calendar year must file electronically.
Penalties may apply if employers are subject to ACA reporting and fail to file returns and furnish statements by the applicable deadlines.
Individual statements for 2023 must be furnished within 30 days of Jan. 31, 2024. Because 2024 is a leap year, the deadline for individual statements is March 1, 2024. In addition, electronic IRS returns for 2023 must be filed by March 31, 2024. However, since this is a Sunday, electronic returns must be filed by the next business day, which is April 1, 2024.
Covered Employers
The following employers are subject to ACA reporting under Sections 6055 and 6056:
- Employers with self-insured health plans (Section 6055 reporting)
- Applicable large employers (ALEs) with either fully insured or self-insured health plans (Section 6056 reporting)
ALEs are employers with 50 or more full-time employees (including full-time equivalent employees) during the preceding calendar year. Note that ALEs with self-funded plans are required to comply with both reporting obligations. However, to simplify the reporting process, the IRS allows ALEs with self-insured plans to use a single combined form to report the information required under both Sections 6055 and 6056.
Section 6055 and 6056 Reporting
- Section 6055 applies to providers of minimum essential coverage (MEC), such as health insurance issuers and employers with self-insured health plans. These entities generally use Forms 1094-B and 1095-B to report information about the coverage they provided during the previous year.
- Section 6056 applies to ALEs—generally, those employers with 50 or more full-time employees, including full-time equivalents, in the previous year. ALEs use Forms 1094-C and 1095-C to report information relating to the health coverage that they offer (or do not offer) to their full-time employees.
Employers reporting under both Sections 6055 and 6056—specifically, ALEs with self-insured plans—use a combined reporting method by filing Forms 1094-C and 1095-C.
Annual Deadlines
Generally, forms must be filed with the IRS annually, no later than Feb. 28 (March 31, if filed electronically) of the year following the calendar year to which the return relates. Employers may receive an automatic 30-day extension to file with the IRS by completing and filing Form 8809 by the due date of the return. Additional extensions of time to file may also be available under certain hardship conditions.
In addition, a reporting entity must furnish statements annually to each individual who is provided MEC (under Section 6055) and each of the ALE’s full-time employees (under Section 6056). Individual statements were generally due on or before Jan. 31 of the year immediately following the calendar year to which the statements relate. However, beginning with the 2021 calendar year, the IRS has provided an automatic extension of 30 days to furnish statements (Forms 1095-B and 1095-C) to individuals under Sections 6055 and 6056. Because the extension is automatic, reporting entities do not need to formally request an extension from the IRS.
Under this deadline extension, statements furnished to individuals will be timely if furnished no later than 30 days after Jan. 31 of the year following the calendar year to which the statement relates. If the extended furnishing date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, statements will be timely if furnished on the next business day.
New Electronic Filing Threshold
There is a new electronic filing threshold for information returns required to be filed on or after Jan. 1, 2024, which has been decreased to 10 or more returns (originally, the threshold was 250 or more returns). Specifically, the instructions for 2023 returns (filed in 2024) provide the following clarifications and reminders:
- The 10-or-more requirement applies in the aggregate to certain information returns. Accordingly, a reporting entity may be required to file fewer than 10 of the applicable Form 1094 and 1095, but still have an electronic filing obligation based on other kinds of information returns filed (e.g., Forms W-2 and 1099).
- The electronic filing requirement does not apply to those reporting entities that request and receive a hardship waiver; however, the IRS encourages electronic filing even if a reporting entity is filing fewer than 10 returns.
- The formatting directions in the instructions are for the preparation of paper returns. When filing forms electronically, the formatting set forth in the “XML Schemas” and “Business Rules” published on IRS.gov must be followed rather than the formatting directions in the instructions. For more information regarding electronic filing, see IRS Publications 5164 and 5165.
Alternative Method of Furnishing Under Section 6055
As of 2019, the individual mandate penalty has been reduced to zero. As a result, an individual does not need the information on Form 1095-B to calculate their federal tax liability or file a federal income tax return. The IRS has provided an alternative manner for a reporting entity to furnish statements to individuals under Section 6055, which applies for all years when the individual mandate penalty is zero.
Under this alternative manner of furnishing, the reporting entity must post a clear and conspicuous notice on its website stating that responsible individuals may receive a copy of their statement upon request. The notice must include an email address, a physical address to which a request may be sent and a telephone number to contact the reporting entity with any questions. For 2023 statements, reporting entities must post the notice by March 1, 2024, and must retain the website notice through Oct. 15, 2024.
ALEs offering self-insured health plans are generally required to use Form 1095-C, Part III, to meet the Section 6055 reporting requirements, instead of Form 1095-B. A self-insured ALE may use this relief for employees who are enrolled in the ALE’s self-insured plan and are not full-time employees of the ALE, as well as for nonemployees (e.g., former employees) who are enrolled in the self-insured plan. However, an ALE may not use the alternative method of furnishing for full-time employees who are enrolled in the self-insured plan.
Important Dates
Feb. 28, 2024
Paper IRS returns for 2023 must be filed by this date. Reporting entities can file up to 10 returns on paper under the new filing threshold.
March 1, 2024
Individual statements for 2023 must be furnished by this date. An alternative method of furnishing Forms 1095-B is available.
April 1, 2024
Electronic IRS returns for 2023 must be filed by this date. Most employers must file electronically beginning in 2024.
Individual Statements
Furnishing Deadline
The IRS extended the deadline for furnishing statements to individuals. The due date for filing with the IRS is unchanged.
Furnishing Under Section 6055
The IRS has provided an alternative method for furnishing statements to individuals under Section 6055. This alternative method generally requires statements to be provided upon request only.
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The future of work is changing fast, and HR leaders are taking notice. More than half of companies are planning to switch their HCM platform this year—but not just for any solution. They’re looking for intelligent, scalable, and AI-driven technology that doesn’t just process payroll but actively enhances business operations. The days of rigid, outdated systems are over. Now, businesses need platforms that adapt, automate, and evolve alongside them. At Simco, we’re passionate about delivering the most advanced, transformative solutions to our clients. That’s why we’ve partnered with isolved, a recognized leader in the HCM space, to provide our clients with a powerful, AI-enabled platform that makes workforce management effortless. With a focus on automation, predictive analytics, and employee experience, isolved is changing the game for small and mid-sized businesses—and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Why isolved Stands Out in the HCM Market For the second consecutive year, Nucleus Research has named isolved a leader in its HCM Value Matrix for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs). The firm’s analysis highlights isolved’s enterprise-grade functionality, designed specifically for SMBs looking to streamline operations, enhance compliance, and leverage AI to drive efficiency. isolved’s adaptability ensures it evolves alongside customer needs. Whether an organization’s HR function matures or its priorities shift, isolved is uniquely positioned to support its success through continuous innovation. In 2024, the company launched 480+ product enhancements directly driven by direct customer feedback. Nucleus Research’s report also highlights several key updates, including: isolved's Candidate Match Tool , an AI-powered feature that evaluates and ranks candidates, streamlining the hiring process. Enhanced Talent Acquisition Services , including recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), job placement assistance, and comprehensive hiring solutions for quick-service restaurants (QSRs). A Broadened Content Library, now with over 95,000 courses designed for employee training, compliance, and professional development. A Next-Gen Time Clock , featuring advanced facial recognition and remote access for secure and accurate time tracking. The Power of Partnership: Simco + isolved While technology is the foundation, the real value comes from how it’s applied. At Simco, we don’t just provide software—we offer a full-service HCM and advisory solution, ensuring that all aspects of workforce management integrate seamlessly. Our clients benefit from: A Dedicated Client Success Manager – Your go-to resource who oversees your relationship with Simco, ensuring that every service—HCM, HR advisory, benefits, insurance, and retirement—works together without gaps. A Fully Integrated HCM & Advisory Solution – No need to juggle multiple vendors for payroll, HR advisory, employee benefits, commercial insurance, and 401(k)/retirement plans. Simco is your one-stop shop for all workforce solutions. Strategic Guidance & Ongoing Optimization – We help businesses maximize their investment in HCM technology while aligning it with compliance, employee engagement, and long-term growth goals. As businesses evolve, so do their workforce management needs. By combining isolved’s leading-edge technology with Simco’s hands-on service and industry expertise, we help businesses stay ahead of change, improve efficiency, and create better employee experiences. Ready to explore the future of HCM? Contact us today to learn more about how we can transform your workforce operations!
Cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics, making phishing attacks more sophisticated and harder to detect. Every day, countless phishing emails reach inboxes, often with the intent to steal sensitive information or spread malware. Unfortunately, many of these attacks succeed in just a matter of seconds— the median time for users to fall for phishing emails is less than 60 seconds according to the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report . With stolen credentials being one of the most popular methods of attack, businesses face increasing risks as these types of cyber threats become more complex and dangerous. How Phishing and Spoofed Domains Work Phishing attacks aim to trick employees into revealing sensitive information, often through: Fraudulent Email Links – These emails appear to be from trusted sources but contain malicious links that install malware or steal login credentials. Look-Alike Domains – Hackers create fake websites that resemble real business portals, altering a single character in the domain (e.g., “micr0soft.com” instead of “microsoft.com”). Credential Theft – Once hackers obtain login credentials, they sell them on the dark web, leading to widespread data breaches. Red Flags: How to Identify a Phishing Email Unusual Sender Addresses – Cybercriminals often spoof email addresses to look like trusted sources. Carefully inspect the sender's domain name for typos, extra characters, or strange formatting. A genuine email from "paypal.com" could be faked as "paypall.com" or "paypal-support.com." Urgent or Threatening Language – Many phishing emails attempt to create a sense of urgency, claiming that an account will be suspended, a payment has failed, or legal action is imminent. If an email pressures you into immediate action, be suspicious. Unexpected Attachments or Links – Hover over hyperlinks before clicking to see the actual URL destination. If the web address looks unfamiliar or mismatched with the sender's identity, do not click. Similarly, attachments that appear out of context—especially ZIP files, PDFs, or Word documents—could contain malware. Requests for Sensitive Information – Legitimate organizations will never ask for passwords, Social Security numbers, or banking details via email. If an email requests confidential information, verify with the company directly using a trusted phone number. Generic Greetings or Poor Grammar – Emails that start with “Dear Customer” instead of your name, or those containing awkward phrasing and misspellings, often indicate phishing attempts. Many cybercriminals operate internationally and use machine translations, leading to unnatural wording. Best Practices to Protect Your Business Train Employees Regularly – Frequent security awareness training helps employees recognize phishing attempts. Past studies by Proofpoint show that companies with ongoing cybersecurity training reduce phishing-related breaches by up to 60%. Implement simulated phishing tests to reinforce learning. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – MFA significantly decreases the chances of an account being compromised, even if login credentials are stolen. Microsoft reports that MFA can block over 99% of automated cyberattacks . Ensure all employees activate MFA for business accounts. Verify Requests Independently – If an email asks for sensitive actions (e.g., wire transfers, login changes, or software downloads), confirm the request through a known and trusted contact method. Never use the phone number or link provided in the email —instead, visit the company's official website or call using a verified number. Monitor and Filter Emails – Implement robust email security tools that automatically flag suspicious messages. Advanced filtering systems, like those offered by Barracuda Networks, can block over 90% of phishing emails before they reach inboxes. Encourage a Report-First Culture – Employees should feel empowered to report suspicious emails even if they are unsure. IT teams can analyze these reports to strengthen cybersecurity measures. Early detection prevents widespread damage. Use a Password Manager – Employees often reuse passwords across multiple accounts, increasing security risks. Encourage the use of password managers like 1Password or LastPass to generate and store complex passwords securely. New Tactic: The Rise of QR Code Phishing ("Quishing") QR code phishing, or "quishing," is a new phishing tactic gaining momentum as attackers exploit the widespread use of QR codes. Unlike traditional phishing, which relies on malicious email links, quishing uses QR codes to redirect users to fake websites designed to steal login credentials. Several factors contribute to quishing's success: Ubiquity : QR codes are now commonly used for payments, tickets, and documents, reducing suspicion when they appear in emails. Minimal Text : Unlike traditional phishing emails, quishing messages often contain little text, making them harder for security systems to flag. Mobile Vulnerability : QR codes are scanned on personal devices, which typically lack the protection of corporate systems. According to Abnormal Security , 90% of quishing attacks involve credential phishing , where users are tricked into entering sensitive data. Another common tactic is using fraudulent MFA alerts, which account for 27% of attacks , while 21% involve fake document-signing requests . Final Thoughts At the end of the day, protecting your company from phishing and cyber threats requires more than just technology—it’s about the people behind it. By fostering a culture of awareness and encouraging open communication, you empower your employees to be the first line of defense. Together, with vigilance and the right tools in place, you can ensure the safety of your sensitive data and build a more secure future for your business.
Employee Appreciation Day, which falls on March 7th this year, is an ideal occasion to express gratitude for the hard work and dedication of your employees. At Simco, we recognize that employee appreciation shouldn’t be limited to just one day, but this day presents a special opportunity to go above and beyond in showing your team how much they mean to the success of your organization. When employees feel recognized and valued, it enhances morale, engagement, and ultimately, productivity. Here are several thoughtful and impactful ways to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day, creating lasting positive effects for both your employees and your company. 1. Personalized Appreciation Nothing shows employees you truly value them more than personalized recognition. Tailor your appreciation efforts to each individual, acknowledging their unique contributions and the impact they’ve made. Personalized gestures help employees feel recognized for the specific work they’ve done, making the appreciation feel authentic and meaningful. You can: Write Personalized Thank-You Notes : Take the time to write handwritten notes to your employees, thanking them for their specific achievements and how they contribute to the company’s overall success. Publicly Acknowledge Contributions : During a company meeting or via a group email, recognize each team member's individual contributions, celebrating their efforts with concrete examples. Employee Spotlights : Feature standout employees in your internal newsletter or on social media to highlight their unique strengths and hard work. 2. Host an Engaging Celebration Employee Appreciation Day is an excellent time to host a celebration that brings everyone together, whether virtually or in person. A well-planned event can boost morale and provide a chance for employees to connect with one another outside of their usual work routines. Ideas for celebration include: Catered Meals or Special Treats : Provide lunch, snacks, or a special treat to make the day feel celebratory. A fun lunch or dessert bar can offer an opportunity for employees to mingle and bond. Themed Events : Host a fun, themed event such as a retro office party or a “thank you” happy hour where employees can unwind and enjoy themselves. Virtual Celebration : For remote or hybrid teams, set up a virtual event like a game or trivia session where employees can engage and laugh together. 3. Offer Tangible Tokens of Appreciation While a simple thank-you is powerful, offering a meaningful gift can take employee appreciation to the next level. Thoughtful rewards can show your team that you not only recognize their hard work but are also willing to invest in their well-being. Consider: Gift Cards : Offer gift cards to popular retailers, restaurants, or online stores, allowing employees to pick out something they personally enjoy. Wellness Incentives : Gifts that promote health and wellness—such as fitness trackers, yoga classes, or access to mental health resources—show employees you care about their overall well-being. Company Merchandise : High-quality, branded merchandise like apparel, accessories, or tech gadgets can serve as a lasting reminder of your appreciation. 4. Invest in Professional Development One of the most meaningful ways to honor your employees is by helping them grow professionally. Employee Appreciation Day is a great time to invest in their future, whether through formal training, new opportunities, or fostering leadership skills. Ways to offer growth opportunities include: Learning Stipends : Offer financial support for employees to pursue further education, certifications, or online courses that align with their career goals. Internal Development Programs : Launch mentorship initiatives or leadership programs that enable employees to expand their skill sets within the organization. Growth Opportunities : Encourage employees to explore new roles or responsibilities that align with their career aspirations, reinforcing your commitment to their long-term success. 5. Encourage Peer Recognition Employee appreciation doesn’t have to be a one-way street from management to employees. Encouraging peer-to-peer recognition helps build a strong team culture, where employees feel supported and valued by their colleagues as well. This helps foster camaraderie and teamwork, which benefits the entire organization. Ideas for peer recognition: Peer-to-Peer Appreciation Platforms : Create an internal platform where employees can nominate or thank their colleagues for their contributions, highlighting specific ways they've gone above and beyond. Recognition Wall : Set up a virtual or physical wall where employees can post messages of appreciation for their peers, encouraging a culture of gratitude. Monthly Recognition : Implement a peer-nominated “Employee of the Month” program to recognize and reward employees for their ongoing contributions. 6. Give Back Employee Appreciation Day also provides an opportunity to show gratitude by giving back to the community. Many employees value working for companies that have a strong sense of corporate social responsibility. By organizing a charitable event or initiative, you demonstrate that your organization cares about making a positive difference beyond the workplace. Ideas for giving back include: Company Volunteer Days : Organize a day of service where employees can volunteer at a local charity or nonprofit, allowing them to contribute to causes they care about while bonding with their colleagues. Matching Donations : Offer to match employee donations to their favorite charities, demonstrating that you support their personal values and causes. Charitable Fundraising Events : Host fundraising activities or auctions with proceeds going to a charitable organization chosen by the team. 7. Seek Feedback Finally, a key part of showing appreciation is listening to your employees and gathering feedback on how they feel valued. Employee Appreciation Day offers the perfect occasion to ask for input on what makes them feel appreciated and what could be improved. This helps ensure that future efforts are even more meaningful. Ways to gather feedback: Anonymous Surveys : Send out a survey asking employees what makes them feel most appreciated and if they have any suggestions for improving recognition practices. One-on-One Check-ins : Arrange individual meetings with employees to hear their thoughts on workplace culture and recognition, providing an opportunity for honest feedback. Cultivating a Culture of Appreciation Year-Round Employee Appreciation Day is a special occasion, but the benefits of recognizing your team should last well beyond this single day. When employees feel consistently valued and appreciated, it leads to higher morale, greater job satisfaction, and increased engagement. By investing in recognition efforts, offering meaningful rewards, and fostering a culture of appreciation, you ensure that your team remains motivated, happy, and productive all year long. At Simco, we believe that lifting and supporting employees is integral to creating a thriving workplace. Whether you celebrate Employee Appreciation Day with gifts, events, or personalized recognition, taking the time to show gratitude is a small gesture that can have a lasting impact on both your employees and your business.
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The future of work is changing fast, and HR leaders are taking notice. More than half of companies are planning to switch their HCM platform this year—but not just for any solution. They’re looking for intelligent, scalable, and AI-driven technology that doesn’t just process payroll but actively enhances business operations. The days of rigid, outdated systems are over. Now, businesses need platforms that adapt, automate, and evolve alongside them. At Simco, we’re passionate about delivering the most advanced, transformative solutions to our clients. That’s why we’ve partnered with isolved, a recognized leader in the HCM space, to provide our clients with a powerful, AI-enabled platform that makes workforce management effortless. With a focus on automation, predictive analytics, and employee experience, isolved is changing the game for small and mid-sized businesses—and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Why isolved Stands Out in the HCM Market For the second consecutive year, Nucleus Research has named isolved a leader in its HCM Value Matrix for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs). The firm’s analysis highlights isolved’s enterprise-grade functionality, designed specifically for SMBs looking to streamline operations, enhance compliance, and leverage AI to drive efficiency. isolved’s adaptability ensures it evolves alongside customer needs. Whether an organization’s HR function matures or its priorities shift, isolved is uniquely positioned to support its success through continuous innovation. In 2024, the company launched 480+ product enhancements directly driven by direct customer feedback. Nucleus Research’s report also highlights several key updates, including: isolved's Candidate Match Tool , an AI-powered feature that evaluates and ranks candidates, streamlining the hiring process. Enhanced Talent Acquisition Services , including recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), job placement assistance, and comprehensive hiring solutions for quick-service restaurants (QSRs). A Broadened Content Library, now with over 95,000 courses designed for employee training, compliance, and professional development. A Next-Gen Time Clock , featuring advanced facial recognition and remote access for secure and accurate time tracking. The Power of Partnership: Simco + isolved While technology is the foundation, the real value comes from how it’s applied. At Simco, we don’t just provide software—we offer a full-service HCM and advisory solution, ensuring that all aspects of workforce management integrate seamlessly. Our clients benefit from: A Dedicated Client Success Manager – Your go-to resource who oversees your relationship with Simco, ensuring that every service—HCM, HR advisory, benefits, insurance, and retirement—works together without gaps. A Fully Integrated HCM & Advisory Solution – No need to juggle multiple vendors for payroll, HR advisory, employee benefits, commercial insurance, and 401(k)/retirement plans. Simco is your one-stop shop for all workforce solutions. Strategic Guidance & Ongoing Optimization – We help businesses maximize their investment in HCM technology while aligning it with compliance, employee engagement, and long-term growth goals. As businesses evolve, so do their workforce management needs. By combining isolved’s leading-edge technology with Simco’s hands-on service and industry expertise, we help businesses stay ahead of change, improve efficiency, and create better employee experiences. Ready to explore the future of HCM? Contact us today to learn more about how we can transform your workforce operations!
Cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics, making phishing attacks more sophisticated and harder to detect. Every day, countless phishing emails reach inboxes, often with the intent to steal sensitive information or spread malware. Unfortunately, many of these attacks succeed in just a matter of seconds— the median time for users to fall for phishing emails is less than 60 seconds according to the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report . With stolen credentials being one of the most popular methods of attack, businesses face increasing risks as these types of cyber threats become more complex and dangerous. How Phishing and Spoofed Domains Work Phishing attacks aim to trick employees into revealing sensitive information, often through: Fraudulent Email Links – These emails appear to be from trusted sources but contain malicious links that install malware or steal login credentials. Look-Alike Domains – Hackers create fake websites that resemble real business portals, altering a single character in the domain (e.g., “micr0soft.com” instead of “microsoft.com”). Credential Theft – Once hackers obtain login credentials, they sell them on the dark web, leading to widespread data breaches. Red Flags: How to Identify a Phishing Email Unusual Sender Addresses – Cybercriminals often spoof email addresses to look like trusted sources. Carefully inspect the sender's domain name for typos, extra characters, or strange formatting. A genuine email from "paypal.com" could be faked as "paypall.com" or "paypal-support.com." Urgent or Threatening Language – Many phishing emails attempt to create a sense of urgency, claiming that an account will be suspended, a payment has failed, or legal action is imminent. If an email pressures you into immediate action, be suspicious. Unexpected Attachments or Links – Hover over hyperlinks before clicking to see the actual URL destination. If the web address looks unfamiliar or mismatched with the sender's identity, do not click. Similarly, attachments that appear out of context—especially ZIP files, PDFs, or Word documents—could contain malware. Requests for Sensitive Information – Legitimate organizations will never ask for passwords, Social Security numbers, or banking details via email. If an email requests confidential information, verify with the company directly using a trusted phone number. Generic Greetings or Poor Grammar – Emails that start with “Dear Customer” instead of your name, or those containing awkward phrasing and misspellings, often indicate phishing attempts. Many cybercriminals operate internationally and use machine translations, leading to unnatural wording. Best Practices to Protect Your Business Train Employees Regularly – Frequent security awareness training helps employees recognize phishing attempts. Past studies by Proofpoint show that companies with ongoing cybersecurity training reduce phishing-related breaches by up to 60%. Implement simulated phishing tests to reinforce learning. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – MFA significantly decreases the chances of an account being compromised, even if login credentials are stolen. Microsoft reports that MFA can block over 99% of automated cyberattacks . Ensure all employees activate MFA for business accounts. Verify Requests Independently – If an email asks for sensitive actions (e.g., wire transfers, login changes, or software downloads), confirm the request through a known and trusted contact method. Never use the phone number or link provided in the email —instead, visit the company's official website or call using a verified number. Monitor and Filter Emails – Implement robust email security tools that automatically flag suspicious messages. Advanced filtering systems, like those offered by Barracuda Networks, can block over 90% of phishing emails before they reach inboxes. Encourage a Report-First Culture – Employees should feel empowered to report suspicious emails even if they are unsure. IT teams can analyze these reports to strengthen cybersecurity measures. Early detection prevents widespread damage. Use a Password Manager – Employees often reuse passwords across multiple accounts, increasing security risks. Encourage the use of password managers like 1Password or LastPass to generate and store complex passwords securely. New Tactic: The Rise of QR Code Phishing ("Quishing") QR code phishing, or "quishing," is a new phishing tactic gaining momentum as attackers exploit the widespread use of QR codes. Unlike traditional phishing, which relies on malicious email links, quishing uses QR codes to redirect users to fake websites designed to steal login credentials. Several factors contribute to quishing's success: Ubiquity : QR codes are now commonly used for payments, tickets, and documents, reducing suspicion when they appear in emails. Minimal Text : Unlike traditional phishing emails, quishing messages often contain little text, making them harder for security systems to flag. Mobile Vulnerability : QR codes are scanned on personal devices, which typically lack the protection of corporate systems. According to Abnormal Security , 90% of quishing attacks involve credential phishing , where users are tricked into entering sensitive data. Another common tactic is using fraudulent MFA alerts, which account for 27% of attacks , while 21% involve fake document-signing requests . Final Thoughts At the end of the day, protecting your company from phishing and cyber threats requires more than just technology—it’s about the people behind it. By fostering a culture of awareness and encouraging open communication, you empower your employees to be the first line of defense. Together, with vigilance and the right tools in place, you can ensure the safety of your sensitive data and build a more secure future for your business.
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