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Attack Patterns T1566.004 — Spearphishing Voice
T1566.004

Spearphishing Voice

Initial Access
TLP:CLEAR

Description

Adversaries may use voice communications to ultimately gain access to victim systems. Spearphishing voice is a specific variant of spearphishing. It is different from other forms of spearphishing in that it employs the use of manipulating a user into providing access to systems through a phone call or other forms of voice communications. Spearphishing frequently involves social engineering techniques, such as posing as a trusted source (ex: Impersonation) and/or creating a sense of urgency or alarm for the recipient. All forms of phishing are electronically delivered social engineering. In this scenario, adversaries are not directly sending malware to a victim vice relying on User Execution for delivery and execution. For example, victims may receive phishing messages that instruct them to call a phone number where they are directed to visit a malicious URL, download malware,(Citation: sygnia Luna Month)(Citation: CISA Remote Monitoring and Management Software) or install adversary-accessible remote management tools (Remote Access Tools) onto their computer.(Citation: Unit42 Luna Moth) Adversaries may also combine voice phishing with Multi-Factor Authentication Request Generation in order to trick users into divulging MFA credentials or accepting authentication prompts.(Citation: Proofpoint Vishing)

MITRE ATT&CK Detection Strategies
1

DET0245 Detection Strategy for Spearphishing Voice across OS platforms
AN0686 Identity Provider

Correlate MFA push fatigue or unusual consent grant attempts with call activity where adversaries may have socially engineered the user over voice.

m365:unified
AN0685 macOS

Monitor Facetime, iMessage, or SIP client logs for anomalous voice call attempts. Link to subsequent user execution events (downloads, RMM installs) triggered post-call.

macos:unifiedlog
AN0684 Linux

Audit VoIP/SIP logs for suspicious outbound calls or call setup messages to unusual endpoints. Correlate with user activity such as browser execution or package installation following the call.

networkdevice:syslog
+1 more analytics

MITRE ATT&CK Mitigations
1

M1017

User Training

User Training involves educating employees and contractors on recognizing, reporting, and preventing cyber threats that rely on human interaction, such as phishing, social engineering, and other manipulative techniques. Comprehensive training programs create a human firewall by empowering users to be an active component of the organization's cybersecurity defenses. This mitigation can be implemented through the following measures: Create Comprehensive Training Programs: - Design training modules tailored to the organization's risk profile, covering topics such as phishing, password management, and incident reporting. - Provide role-specific training for high-risk employees, such as helpdesk staff or executives. Use Simulated Exercises: - Conduct phishing simulations to measure user susceptibility and provide targeted follow-up training. - Run social engineering drills to evaluate employee responses and reinforce protocols. Leverage Gamification and Engagement: - Introduce interactive learning methods such as quizzes, gamified challenges, and rewards for successful detection and reporting of threats. Incorporate Security Policies into Onboarding: - Include cybersecurity training as part of the onboarding process for new employees. - Provide easy-to-understand materials outlining acceptable use policies and reporting procedures. Regular Refresher Courses: - Update training materials to include emerging threats and techniques used by adversaries. - Ensure all employees complete periodic refresher courses to stay informed. Emphasize Real-World Scenarios: - Use case studies of recent attacks to demonstrate the consequences of successful phishing or social engineering. - Discuss how specific employee actions can prevent or mitigate such attacks.

Details

Platforms
Linux
Macos
Windows
Identity provider
Added
May 2, 2026
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