Common Social Engineering Techniques
Social engineers use various tactics to manipulate individuals. The most common techniques include:
- Pretexting: Attackers create a fabricated scenario to steal information. For example, they may pretend to be a bank employee verifying account details.
- Baiting: Cybercriminals offer something enticing, such as free software or downloads, that secretly contain malware.
- Tailgating: A physical security breach where an attacker follows an authorized person into a secure area.
- Vishing (Voice Phishing): Attackers call victims pretending to be from tech support or financial institutions to extract sensitive data.
- Smishing (SMS Phishing): Fraudulent text messages designed to trick users into clicking malicious links.