Charles EstherPre-made scam tools, fake websites, and drag-and-drop builders are lowering the barrier for cybercriminals
Phishing kits and phishing-as-a-service platforms are now widely available for as little as $25, giving low-skilled cybercriminals everything they need to launch sophisticated scams.
These kits include fake websites, pre-written emails, and even contact lists, targeting brands like Google, Meta, and Microsoft.
With cybercrime becoming more accessible, staying vigilant is more important than ever.
Phishing Has Never Been Easier — or Cheaper
Cybercrime is evolving fast.
And thanks to phishing kits available for less than $25, even amateurs can now launch sophisticated digital attacks.
According to recent research by NordVPN, these kits are often sold on the dark web and platforms like Telegram.
They typically include ready-made fake websites, scripted phishing emails, and stolen email lists — all bundled for ease of use.
These pre-built kits lower the skill barrier dramatically.
Instead of needing to code or design anything from scratch, attackers can now run effective scams with just a few clicks.
Big Brands Are Prime Targets
Some of the most impersonated companies include Google, Meta (Facebook), and Microsoft.
In fact, NordVPN discovered over 85,000 fake Google URLs in 2024 alone.
Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, explained how dangerous this trend is becoming.
“Phishing kits are a force multiplier for cybercrime.
They put powerful attack tools into the hands of people who may not have the skills to build them on their own,” he said.
With drag-and-drop website builders and plug-and-play email templates, scammers can easily make their attacks look legitimate.
The Rise of Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS)
It doesn’t stop with downloadable kits.
Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS) platforms now offer criminals subscription-based access to full-service scam operations.
Instead of setting up everything themselves, criminals can now pay a monthly fee to launch email campaigns, manage responses, and even track user clicks.
“Phishing kits and PhaaS platforms lower the barrier to entry,” Warmenhoven noted.
“We’re seeing a surge in both the number and variety of attacks.
That means consumers need to be more alert than ever.”
How to Protect Yourself from Phishing Attacks
Protecting your data starts with simple steps:
- Be skeptical of emails that ask you to act fast or offer suspicious rewards.
- Hover over links before clicking — look for misspellings or odd domains.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your online accounts.
Even if someone steals your password, MFA adds a second layer of defense. - Avoid free file-sharing and video sites unless you fully trust them.
Many hide malware or trackers. - Keep your devices and software updated to block known security flaws.
- Run malware scans and use anti-tracking tools in your browser.
If you accidentally click a suspicious link or download something questionable, run a full system scan immediately.
If you suspect your login info has been exposed, change your passwords from a different, secure device.
Stay Vigilant in an Age of DIY Cybercrime
The tools to commit cybercrime have never been more accessible.
With phishing kits selling for less than the cost of a pizza, and full-service scam platforms on the rise, staying safe online means being informed and alert at all times.
Be cautious, double-check links, and protect your accounts — because the next phishing attempt might be just one click away.
