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Key takeaways
- Attachment Simulations let admins run attachment-based phishing tests using embedded images instead of real files, enabling reliable tracking of who interacted with the attachment.
- Simulations can spoof .pdf, .zip, .docx, or .xlsx file types with customizable attachment names.
- Attachments render in Outlook-style or Gmail-style formatting based on the email provider configured for each domain.
- The new attack vector is built into the standard phishing scenario library, filterable alongside existing vectors like link, QR, and callback simulations.
- Because nothing is actually downloaded, employee practice focuses on recognizing suspicious attachments rather than on file-handling behavior.
Many real phishing attacks arrive as attachments, not just links. Traditional training often skips realistic attachment tests and relies on unreliable tracking to see who interacted with a file.
Today, Adaptive is introducing Attachment Simulations: attachment-based phishing simulations that use embedded images instead of real files so you can track failure reliably.
Key features & capabilities
Attachment Simulations are built into the standard phishing scenario library:
- New attachment attack vector: Choose from scenarios that feature an attachment-style lure, and filter for "Attachment" like any other attack vector.
- Various attachment file types: Create simulations that spoof .pdf, .zip, .docx, or .xlsx attachments and customize the attachment name.
- Best-in-class tracking and reporting: Seamlessly track which employees click spoof attachments.
- Realistic styling: Attachments render in Outlook-style or Gmail-style based on the email provider set for each domain.
How teams are using Attachment Simulations:
- Admins: Add attachment simulations alongside link, QR, and callback simulations to cover more attack vectors in a single campaign and get clear reporting on "attachment clicks.”
- For employees: Practice spotting suspicious attachments in a safe environment where nothing is actually downloaded, focusing behavior on recognition rather than file handling.
Attachment Simulations are live on Adaptive
Already using Adaptive? Visit our help center to get started with Attachment Simulations in your account.
New to Adaptive? Request a demo to see Attachment Simulations in action.
As experts in cybersecurity insights and AI threat analysis, the Adaptive Security Team is sharing its expertise with organizations.
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