Abstract – In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, traditional reactive measures are often insufficient to address the dynamic nature of cyber threats. This paper explores the concept of active defense, a preemptive approach to cybersecurity that seeks to deter attackers by making their efforts economically unsustainable. Specifically, we focus on the application of active defense strategies to combat phishing attacks, a prevalent and economically motivated form of cybercrime. By implementing measures that disrupt the profitability of phishing campaigns, such as cutting off traffic to phishing sites, we argue that attackers are compelled to abandon their efforts, thereby enhancing overall security. Through a comprehensive analysis of the economics of phishing, the effectiveness of a novel preemptive mitigation technique, and current trends in active defense, this paper provides insights into how economic disincentives can be leveraged to reduce the incidence of phishing attacks. Our findings suggest that a preemptive, economically focused approach to cybersecurity can significantly impact the decision-making process of attackers, leading to a decrease in phishing activities and contributing to a safer cyber environment.