I Built a Python-Based Phishing Script for Security Awareness

Phishing remains one of the most common attack vectors in cybersecurity — not because it's technically advanced, but because it works.

As part of a recent red team exercise / security awareness project, I worked on a Python-based phishing toolkit designed to execute real-world phishing campaigns within an organization.

This blog will walk through the techniques used, challenges faced, and how the tool was able to bypass spam filters and land directly in user inboxes.

Features of the Script

1. Template Engine

The script allows operators to choose from over 20 phishing email templates, such as:

• Fake password reset notifications

• Fake invoice emails

• Event registration emails

• Security alert emails

• HR policy updates

Templates are customizable for:

• Sender name

• Recipient name (if you know it)

• Companies name

• Companies phone number (one you have control over).

• Hidden malicious link (behind anchor text like "Register Now" or "View Document").

2.Spam Filter Evasion Techniques

To increase the delivery success rate (into inbox, not spam), the script uses several techniques:

• Randomized email headers

• Customizable "from" fields

• Use of legitimate-looking domains for links (with hidden redirects)

• Clean HTML formatting

• Avoiding common phishing keywords (like "urgent", "click immediately", etc.)

3. Link Obfuscation

Instead of showing the raw malicious URL, links were embedded behind clean anchor text.

Ethical Reminder

Phishing is dangerous. This project was for education, awareness, and security testing only.

Organizations should use phishing simulations to:

• Train employees to spot suspicious emails

• Improve reporting habits

• Strengthen security culture