Have you ever opened an email attachment without thinking twice? Maybe it looked like a vendor invoice, a referral from another vet, or even a document from someone on your team. If so, you’re not alone—and unfortunately, cybercriminals are counting on it.
In today’s tech-driven world, veterinary practices rely heavily on email to stay connected. But phishing scams are getting more advanced, and one of the latest tricks is especially sneaky: corrupted Microsoft Word attachments that slip past email security filters and infect your system with malware.
What Is a Corrupted Attachment Scam?
Scammers send a damaged or “corrupted” Word document through email. Since the file isn’t fully readable, most email security systems can’t properly scan it—so it ends up in your inbox.
When you open it, Microsoft Word tries to “repair” the file and shows you a document that looks completely normal. But hidden inside could be a malicious link or QR code—usually directing you to a fake Microsoft 365 login page. If anyone on your team enters their login info, scammers can gain access to your clinic’s data and systems.
Why This Matters for Veterinary Practices
If a cybercriminal gets access to even one team member’s email account, the damage can be serious:
- Exposure of sensitive patient and client data
- Use of your email to send more phishing scams
- Ransomware that locks you out of medical records or appointment schedules
- Financial loss and possible legal consequences
- Damage to your clinic’s reputation and trust
Phishing is one of the most common cybersecurity threats for small businesses—and it’s getting more sophisticated every year.
How to Protect Your Veterinary Clinic from Email Scams
You don’t have to be a tech expert to keep your clinic safe. A few simple habits can go a long way:
- Pause before you click. Never open attachments or click on links from unknown or unexpected sources.
- Watch out for urgency. Scammers often use pressure tactics to get you to act quickly—don’t fall for it.
- Double-check the sender. If something feels off, call or message the person using a known contact method.
- Looks can be deceiving. Just because an email looks polished doesn’t mean it’s legitimate.
- Train your team. We offer weekly cybersecurity training to help your staff spot red flags and build safe tech habits.
Cybersecurity for Veterinary Clinics
At Computer Services Unlimited, we specialize in helping veterinary clinics and animal hospitals keep their systems secure. From ongoing staff training to managed security solutions, we make sure your technology works for you—not against you.
Need help defending your inbox from today’s email threats?
Get in touch with us for a free consultation and discover how we can keep your clinic protected.