How to Test Trend Micro Email Security Solutions Effectively

Email-based cyberattacks, including phishing and ransomware, have been attributed to over 75% of security incidents worldwide, highlighting the critical need for proactive defenses (Cybersecurity Ventures, 2024). Despite the advanced capabilities of Trend Micro’s email security solutions, nearly 80% of sophisticated threats still manage to evade secure email gateways (SEGs) (Forrester, 2024). Misconfigurations, constantly evolving attack methods, and inadequate adjustments can lead to:

• Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive information through phishing and malware attacks.
• Compliance Failures: Non-adherence to standards like GDPR and SOC 2 can result in hefty fines.
• Reputation Damage: Customers may lose trust following avoidable security lapses.

For example, in September 2024, a major healthcare provider experienced an email data breach, exposing sensitive information of over 40,000 individuals. This incident underscores the need for comprehensive email security and regular testing to uncover vulnerabilities.

Potential Gaps in Trend Micro Email Security Solution

While Trend Micro offers robust protection in email security, cybercriminals continuously evolve their techniques. Modern attacks leverage AI, deepfakes, and social engineering to bypass traditional defenses. Below are examples of threats Trend Micro might miss:

1. QR Phishing (Quishing):

• Malicious QR codes redirect users to phishing sites or malware downloads.
• Why Missed: Embedded QR payloads in images evade standard email filters.

2. MFA Phishing (Multi-Factor Authentication):

• Exploits session tokens or tricks users into providing MFA codes.
• Why Missed: Targets session traffic, bypassing conventional security mechanisms.

3. Callback Phishing (Hybrid Vishing):

• Emails prompt recipients to call attackers posing as IT support.
• Why Missed: Relies solely on social engineering, avoiding links or attachments.

4. Social Media Phishing:

• Impersonates colleagues on platforms like LinkedIn to steal credentials.
• Why Missed: Gateways don’t monitor external platforms.

5. Supply Chain Impersonation:

• Fake emails from vendors request payments or sensitive data.
• Why Missed: Subtle domain differences bypass DMARC and SPF checks.

6. Browser-in-the-Browser (BitB) Attacks:

• Fake SSO windows capture credentials.
• Why Missed: Relies on visual deception rather than detectable malware.

What is the Email Threat Simulator?

Email Threat Simulator is an advanced tool that scans your email security solutions with real-world email threats to evaluate your defenses. It tests security against:

• Malicious Attachments: Files containing hidden malware.
• Ransomware Attacks: Simulates ransomware via email.
• Business Email Compromise (BEC): Tests spoofing and impersonation scenarios.
• Advanced Persistent Threats (APT): Evaluates long-term infiltration risks.
• AI-Generated Phishing:Mocks advanced, AI-driven phishing attempts.

With actionable insights, ETS helps organizations fine-tune Trend Micro configurations to strengthen their defenses.

How to Test Trend Micro Email Security Gateway

Testing Trend Micro Email Security with ETS involves four straightforward steps:

1. Create a Test Email Address:

• Set up a dedicated email address for testing.
• Ensure proper permissions for email delivery and scanning.

2. Launch the ETS Scan:

• Access the Keepnet dashboard online. If you don’t already have an account, then
• Request a demo and set up your free account by visiting Keepnet ETS.
• Click on the +NEW button to initiate a fresh scan.
• Input the designated test email address and proceed with the configuration.
• For automated scans, configure settings for Outlook Web Access (OWA), Microsoft 365 or IMAP as needed.

3. Send Test Emails:

• Simulate various email attacks:
• Malicious attachments in formats like PDF, Excel, and ZIP.
• Business Email Compromise attempts.

4. Analyze Results:

• ETS generates detailed reports showing:
• Threats that bypassed Trend Micro’s filters.
• Security gaps and strengths.
• Recommended adjustments.

5. Optimize and Retest:

• Implement ETS’s recommendations to improve configurations.
• Schedule regular tests to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Benefits of Using Keepnet ETS to Test Trend Micro

• Boost Efficiency: Increase email blocking rates from 28% to 96% by addressing vulnerabilities.
• Identify Misconfigurations: Detect and resolve issues like Open Relay or DNS misconfigurations.
• Track Progress: Monitor improvements over time with comprehensive scan reports.

Key Takeaways

Regular testing is essential for minimizing email breach risks. Organizations leveraging ETS ensure that Trend Micro solutions perform optimally, bolstering overall cybersecurity resilience against sophisticated threats.