Top 5 Phishing Scams Businesses Need to Watch in 2026

Phishing has been around for years, with scammers pretending to be a trusted person or company to steal sensitive information. But the way they target businesses continues to evolve. Today, attackers are not just sending fake emails. They are using QR codes, text messages, phone calls, and even AI-generated voices to steal money, data, and login credentials. According to the 2026 Kaseya Cybersecurity Outlook Report, nearly 70 percent of businesses expect to experience a phishing attack in the next 12 months, which shows just how common and persistent these threats have become. Understanding what these scams look like and how to prevent them is critical, so here are the top five phishing attacks businesses need to watch for in 2026.
 

1. What Is QR Code Phishing?

Fake QR codes are showing up in emails, flyers, shipping labels, and even inside offices. When scanned, these codes direct employees to fake login pages designed to steal credentials, often targeting Microsoft 365 accounts. Because scanning a QR code feels quick and harmless, employees may not realize they have landed on a malicious site until it is too late.

Tips for protection:

• Verify QR codes before scanning, especially if they come from unexpected sources.
• Avoid entering login credentials after scanning a QR code.
• Use security tools that inspect links before opening them.
   

2. What Is Microsoft 365 Credential Phishing?

Attackers steal Microsoft 365 credentials and use them to send emails that appear to come from a trusted company account. These messages often request changes to payment details, wire transfers, or account information. Because emails look legitimate, employees may follow the instructions, which can lead to direct financial loss and exposure of sensitive data.

Tips for protection:

• Confirm any payment or account change request by phone or in person.
• Enable multi-factor authentication on all email accounts.
• Monitor for unusual login activity or unfamiliar devices.
   

3. What Is Executive Impersonation Phishing?

Scammers pose as company executives and pressure employees to act quickly. Common requests include purchasing gift cards, sending payroll data, or transferring funds. The sense of urgency and authority makes these scams especially effective.

Tips for protection:

• Require secondary approval for financial or sensitive requests.
• Train employees to slow down and question urgent messages.
• Establish clear internal procedures for executive requests.
   

4. What are Vishing and Smishing Scams?

Attackers are increasingly reaching employees through phone calls and text messages. Phone-based scams are known as vishing, while text-based scams are called smishing. These messages often ask for passwords, verification codes, or account access. Once attackers obtain this information, they can take over accounts.

Tips for protection:

• Never share passwords or verification codes by phone or text.
• Verify requests using a separate communication method.
• Encourage employees to report suspicious calls or messages.

5. What Is AI-Powered Deepfake Voice Scams?

With publicly available audio, attackers can use AI to create deepfake voices that imitate a real person’s speech patterns and tone. They may call employees pretending to be company leaders and request urgent actions involving money or sensitive data. These scams are difficult to spot because the voice sounds authentic.

Tips for protection:

• Use multi-step verification for high-risk requests.
• Educate employees about AI voice impersonation.
• Do not rely on voice alone to approve actions.

Quick Summary: Top Phishing Threats in 2026

• QR code phishing that targets Microsoft 365 logins and steals employee credentials
• Business Email Compromise (BEC) using stolen credentials to send realistic internal emails
• Executive impersonation scams that pressure employees into urgent actions
• Vishing (phone call) and smishing (text message) attacks asking for passwords or verification codes
• AI-powered deepfake voice fraud that imitates company leaders

How Businesses Can Protect Themselves

Phishing attacks come in many forms, and no single defense is enough. A strong security strategy includes employee training, layered protection, and continuous monitoring. Sharp supports businesses in defending against phishing threats by providing expert-managed services and security practices that keep sensitive information secure. With the right tools, training, and support, businesses can stay one step ahead of scammers with Sharp and keep their operations safe and secure.