It was the end of my day and I was busy answering the dozens of emails that had accumulated. One of the emails was on a secure email account for which I was doing contracted work. As I alternatively answered the emails and clicked on informational items, the last email was slightly different. While it was not from the organization, it seemed legitimate and I hastily opened it. The email link led to a website emblazoned with the title, “This was a test.” The email went on to state this was deliberately sent to me as an example of a phishing email. Had this been a true malicious attempt, I would have placed my email account and computer at risk of being hacked, introducing malware, or worse. Users be aware!
Just a week ago, I completed over thirty compliance programs designed to increase my awareness of cyber security issues. Most of the information I already knew and I quickly completed the tests. This email was a test to see if I truly learned anything. It was a test, and I failed. Will it happen again? Undoubtedly, but I do know I am now super sensitized to the possibility of email fraud and phishing schemes. What about my spiritual life? Do I live with a heightened awareness that temptations are always lurking?
So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment.
2 Peter 2:9 (NLT)
In spite of my best efforts, this test was a glaring example of how susceptible I am to cyber attacks, even after undergoing training. No firewall or electronic surveillance on my browser can successfully stop these attacks. It begins with me. What about Satan’s attacks? I may be able to anticipate some of his nefarious schemes but even if I live with a heightened awareness, he will always have a new lie and strategy to elude my defenses. Like the cyberattacks, it begins with me. By my own efforts, I will fail when Satan attacks. Only by confessing and repenting of my sins and accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior will I be able to withstand and triumph over Satan’s attacks because of the power of God, the Holy Spirit, who indwells within me.
Only God knows how to rescue me from Satan’s attacks.
Amen!
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
The Bereans Blog 