Social engineering is a tactic used by cyber attackers to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information, performing actions, or providing access to systems or networks. Unlike traditional hacking methods that exploit technical vulnerabilities, social engineering exploits human psychology and trust to achieve malicious goals.
Common techniques used in social engineering include:
1. Phishing: Sending deceptive emails, messages, or websites that appear legitimate to trick users into providing sensitive information such as passwords, financial information, or login credentials.
2. Pretexting: Creating a false pretext or scenario to gain the trust of individuals and extract information from them, often over the phone or in person.
3. Baiting: Offering something enticing, such as a free download or prize, to lure individuals into taking actions that compromise their security, such as clicking on a malicious link or downloading malware.
4. Spear Phishing: Targeting specific individuals or organizations with personalized and tailored phishing attacks, often using information obtained from social media or other sources.
5. Impersonation: Pretending to be someone else, such as a trusted colleague or authority figure, to deceive individuals into providing information or performing actions they wouldn't normally do.
Social engineering attacks can have serious consequences, including data breaches, financial loss, identity theft, and compromised systems or networks. To mitigate the risk of social engineering attacks, individuals and organizations should be vigilant, skeptical of unsolicited communications, and regularly educate themselves and their employees about common social engineering tactics.