Social engineering is a critical aspect of cybersecurity that exploits human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. It involves tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information or performing actions that compromise security. Here's a breakdown of key concepts:
📌 What is Social Engineering?
Social engineering attacks rely on human interaction to bypass technical defenses. Attackers use tactics like:
- Pretexting: Creating a fabricated scenario to gain trust
- Baiting: Luring victims with false promises
- Tailgating: Following authorized personnel into restricted areas
- Quid Pro Quo: Offering something valuable in exchange for information
🔒 Common Social Engineering Techniques
| Technique | Example | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing | Fake emails mimicking trusted sources | ⚠️ High |
| Vishing | Voice calls pretending to be customer service | ⚠️ High |
| Smishing | SMS messages with malicious links | ⚠️ Medium |
| Physical Access | Impersonating IT staff for device access | ⚠️ Medium |
🔒 How to Protect Against Social Engineering
- Verify identities before sharing information
- Train employees on suspicious behavior patterns
- Implement strict access controls
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for critical systems
For deeper insights, explore our article on Phishing Attacks. 📚