Beware of the Secure DNS Scam: How to Spot and Stop Phishing Emails

Recently, we received an email that appeared to be from our hosting service provider, with the subject line: 

“We’re upgrading your domain DNS for something even better, freely!” 

The email looked legitimate, complete with official logos, professional formatting, and a sense of urgency. It instructed us to click on a link to “secure our DNS” before the deadline. 

Fortunately, before we acted, our IT security team recognized that this was a phishing scam. This was not a genuine upgrade offer, but a Secure DNS scam that was a well-structured phishing email designed to steal sensitive information. 

In this blog, we’ll get into the details of what a Secure DNS scam is, how to spot these, precautionary measures to avoid them, and how to check whether your DNS is truly secure.  

What Is a Secure DNS Scam? 

A Secure DNS scam is a type of phishing attack where cybercriminals pretend to be real companies (service providers) like hosting companies, domain registrars, or IT security firms. They trick employees into taking actions that compromise their company's security. This includes clicking on malicious links, entering login credentials on fake websites, downloading harmful malware, or granting unauthorized access to company domain or server infrastructure. 

These fake emails typically use common tactics to create a sense of panic. Scammers often claim that the DNS system needs an "urgent upgrade", or a domain will stop working. They claim domains are "about to expire" and need quick action. Another frequent approach involves warning that websites are at serious risk unless users quickly "verify their settings" through provided links. 

If employees fall for these scams, the consequences can be severe. Once attackers successfully trick users into interacting with their scam emails, they can hijack the victim's domain entirely, redirect legitimate website traffic to malicious sites designed to steal information, or gain access to sensitive data including credit card details, administrative login credentials, and other confidential business information. 

How to Spot a Secure DNS Scam Email 

Here’s how to identify if an email is a phishing attempt: 

• Check the Sender’s Email Address 

The sender's email address often provides the first clue about authenticity. Real companies use their official domains for communication (such as @wordpress.com or @godaddy.com). Scammers use fake email addresses that look similar but have small spelling mistakes or weird endings like @wordpress-support.net or @dns-upgrade.xyz. 

• Look for Urgent or Threatening Language 

The language and tone used in these emails is another critical indicator of potential fraud. Scammers create a sense of panic by using phrases such as "Your DNS will be suspended in 24 hours!" or "Immediate action required!". In contrast, real service providers send calm, professional emails and don't try to rush you. 

• Hover Over Links Before Clicking 

Before clicking any links, always hover your mouse over them to see the actual destination URL. If the link leads to a questionable website that doesn't match the sender's official domain, don’t click on it.  

• Check for Poor Grammar & Spelling 

In the email, look for bad grammar, weird sentences, or spelling mistakes and typos. Real companies don't send emails with these errors. 

• Verify Through Official Channels 

When in doubt, log in directly to your service provider’s website (don’t use the email link). You can also contact their official support team directly to confirm whether the message you received is genuine. 

How to Stop Secure DNS Scam Emails 

Preventing these scams requires cybersecurity awareness and other technical safety measures. Let’s look at a few of those.  

• Enable Spam Filters & Email Authentication 

The foundation of email security begins with enabling proper spam filters and email authentication protocols. Set up email security settings like DMARC, DKIM, and SPF to block spoofed emails before they reach your inbox. Also, make sure your email provider (like Gmail or Outlook) has spam protection filters turned on. 

• Train Employees to Recognize Phishing 

Regular cybersecurity training sessions help employees understand phishing threats and spot fake emails. Test your staff with fake phishing emails to keep staff alert and get insights into areas where additional training may be needed. This approach helps create a security-conscious culture within the organization. 

• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

Use two-step login (MFA) on all your accounts. Even if scammers steal your password, they still can't get in without the second step like text code or app.  

• Keep Software & DNS Settings Updated 

Keep your software and DNS settings updated. Old software has security loopholes that hackers can use to break in. Use DNSSEC (DNS Security Extensions) to prevent hijacking. 

• Report Phishing Attempts 

When you get phishing emails, reporting them helps protect not only your organization but also the broader online community. Forward suspicious emails to your IT security team for analysis. This helps security experts learn about new scams and stop them. 

Is Your DNS Secure? Find Out Now 

A compromised DNS can lead to website downtime, data breaches, and malware infections. Given below is a checklist to find out if your DNS is secure.   

• Run a DNS Health Check 

Running comprehensive DNS health checks regularly using tools like MXToolbox or DNS Checker. These tools provide detailed reports about your DNS setup, and you can find loopholes that need immediate attention. 

• Enable DNSSEC and Monitor Changes 

Implement DNSSEC (DNS Security Extensions) to protect your DNS from fake changes and DNS spoofing. This security feature makes sure DNS information is real and hasn't been changed by hackers. Set up alerts to tell you if someone is trying to change your DNS settings without permission.  

• Use a Reputable DNS Provider 

While free or unreliable DNS services might seem attractive from a cost perspective, they often lack security. Invest in a trusted DNS provider with strong security credentials to keep your website safe and running. 

Why Choose GS-IT for Your IT Infrastructure & Cybersecurity Needs 

At GS-IT, we specialize in protecting businesses from phishing scams, DNS hijacking, and cyber threats. With 12+ years of expertise in IT security, we offer: 

• Managed DNS Security – Prevent hijacking with enterprise-grade protection. 

• Phishing Defense Solutions – Advanced email filtering & employee training. 

• 24/7 Network Monitoring – Real-time threat detection & response. 

• Compliance & Risk Management – Ensure your business meets security standards. 

Secure your IT infrastructure today with Dubai's most trusted IT security experts! 

For further queries write to us at hello@gs-it.ae.