Cybercriminals use social engineering, a strategy to manipulate your brain so your boss gives them information they otherwise would not have received. It takes advantage of human psychology rather than technical weaknesses.
How Social Engineering Works
Social engineers have a toolbox of tactics which includes, but are not limited to:
Phishing: Deceptive emails or messages trick victims into clicking on links to malicious or download malicious attachments.
Pretexting: Developing a narrative to acquire trust and fetching classified data.
Baiting — getting victims to breach their security by promising them something appealing or threatening them.
Quid Pro Quo: Providing a kiss or service to lure in sensitive information in return.
Tailgating: Gaining access to a restricted area by following authorized personnel
Most prevalent types of social engineering attacks
Phishing — Perhaps the most common, phishing attacks can be relatively simple or incredibly nuanced and targeted.
Vishing — This is voice phishing, and this method utilizes phone calls to have victims release sensitive information.
Smishing: Just like phishing, except through SMS messages.
Spear Phishing: Advanced attacks that take advantage of particular information about the victim.
Steps to Safeguard Yourself Against Social Engineering
Be Suspicious: Do not respond to requests for personal information, whether by way of email, telephone, or other method of communication.
Check For Verification: Always look into the identity of the sender and requests received.
Never Click on Suspicious Links: Do not click on any links that arrive in unsolicited emails or messages, even if they seem to be from a reliable source.
Strong Passwords: Use Strong Passwords for all the online accounts you own
Turn on Two-Factor Authentication: Make your accounts even more secure.
Avoid Over-Sharing on Social Media : Social media is an open book about a person.
Awareness: Know the current social engineering techniques and best practices.
However, knowing common social engineering strategies and practicing preventative measures can help to minimize your risk.
