Data-Driven Analysis of SEG Effectiveness and Missed Threats

This technical report presents a comprehensive analysis of Secure Email Gateway (SEG) effectiveness and the prevalence of missed phishing threats. It details findings from an evaluation of nearly 2,000 customer environments, revealing that an average of 67.5 additional phishing emails bypasses SEG defenses per 100 mailboxes each month. The report outlines the operational impact of these missed attacks, noting that each phishing incident consumes an average of 27.5 minutes to resolve, costing organizations approximately $36.29 per event. The analysis highlights significant performance variations among SEG vendors, with smaller organizations facing disproportionately higher risks. Key attack types identified include vendor scams and credential theft, which account for a substantial percentage of missed attacks. The report emphasizes the need for improved email security measures, suggesting that traditional SEG solutions may not adequately address evolving threats. By quantifying the risks and operational burdens associated with SEG failures, this report aims to inform security leaders about the current landscape of email security challenges.