Cybercriminals use deception to manipulate individuals into performing actions or divulging confidential information. This may include downloading and installing files infected with malware, transferring money, or providing password and login information.
Social Engineering can be used in both personal and corporate contexts.
The most popular types of social engineering attacks are social media scams, phishing emails, smishing, and vishing.
Social engineering attacks can be prevented by educating users, implementing systems for employees to report suspicious emails, using firewalls and email filters, enforcing strict password management policies, or adding another layer of security such as two-factor authentication.