Beware of malicious PDFs: a growing risk in e-mail

Cyberpeace Tech
May 9
2 min read

In today's digital environment, PDF files have become an indispensable tool for business communication. They are used daily by millions of people and organizations around the world thanks to their ease of use, compatibility and reliable formatting. However, this popularity has also made them an attractive avenue for cybercriminals.

Email, the starting point for cybercrime

Currently, it is estimated that around 70% of cyberattacks start with an email, and a significant percentage of these use malicious attachments, with malicious PDFs being one of the most common resources for concealing threats.

Their massive use and the trust they generate among users makes it easy for attackers to use them to go unnoticed by traditional security tools.

How malicious PDFs work

These files may contain hidden links, malicious code or even QR codes that redirect to fake sites designed to steal information.

In many cases, attackers camouflage their intentions by using legitimate services or disguising the files with well-known names and brands to trick users.

In addition, advanced encryption techniques mean that these threats go undetected by even the most up-to-date anti-virus software.

Risks faced by companies in Mexico

Mexico is not exempt from this trend. As the digitization of processes grows and dependence on email increases, so do the possibilities of falling victim to these attacks. Therefore, it is essential to learn from what is happening in other countries and strengthen local cybersecurity strategies.

Key recommendations to avoid infection by malicious PDFs

Check the sender: Before opening any file, verify that the email address is legitimate.
Do not open unexpected files: Especially if you are asked to click on links, scan QR codes, or call unknown numbers.
Analyze links: Hover over them to check where they actually take you.
Use updated viewers: Preferably from secure browsers and with updated systems.
Disable JavaScript in PDFs: This reduces the possibility of malicious code execution.
Update software frequently: Keep all system and protection tools up to date.
Trust your intuition: If the document looks suspicious or has strange errors, it is better not to open it.

Prevention is the best defense

In Mexico, many small and medium-sized companies still do not have advanced protection systems, which makes them especially vulnerable. For this reason, it is important to adopt preventive measures that are adapted to each type of organization, encouraging digital education and promoting a culture of IT security.

Malicious PDFs are no longer simple files: they are disguised weapons that exploit user trust to execute cyberattacks. Prevention and awareness are today the best tools to defend ourselves from these silent but increasingly frequent threats.

At Cyberpeace, we recommend staying informed about cybersecurity issues and other digital threats. Prevention and knowledge are your best allies to protect your online identity. Interested in learning more about cybersecurity and digital privacy? Follow our networks and stay informed.