How do we protect our HR department from document-based social engineering attacks?

All answers to this question.

You need to isolate the environment where these files are opened. We implemented a 'Browser-based Sandbox' or a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) specifically for HR. When they click an external attachment, it opens in a disposable container that has no access to the internal network. Additionally, use an email security gateway that strips macros and flattens files into PDFs before they ever reach the inbox. Education is key, but you cannot expect HR to be malware experts; you must provide them with a technical safety net that allows for mistakes.

   Answered 2024-11-15 by Susan Mitchell

Have you looked into Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) technology to automatically clean these files before they reach the HR team's workstations?

   Answered 2024-11-18 by Daniel Garcia

• Daniel, CDR is actually what we just started testing! It strips away all active content like macros and scripts, leaving only the text and formatting. It’s been a lifesaver because it doesn't disrupt the HR workflow, but it essentially neutralizes the threat of document-based social engineering.

     Commented 2024-11-21 by Richard Hall

The simplest fix is to mandate that all resumes must be uploaded through a portal rather than sent via email. This centralizes the scanning process.

   Answered 2024-11-25 by Patricia King

• Using a portal is a great suggestion, Patricia. It forces the attacker to interact with a hardened system instead of a vulnerable human inbox.

     Commented 2024-11-28 by Susan Mitchell