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Phishing: How Cybercriminals Trick You

Understanding Phishing: What It Is and How It Works

Phishing

Phishing is a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details by disguising oneself as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. Cybercriminals use various techniques to trick users into providing this sensitive information.

Email Phishing

One popular method is sending emails that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or a social media site, that prompt the user to click on a link and enter their login credentials. The link may lead to a fake website that looks identical to the real one, and when the user enters their information, it is sent directly to the cybercriminals.

Social Engineering

Another method of phishing is through social engineering, where the cybercriminals use psychological tactics to manipulate the user into divulging their sensitive information. For example, they may pose as a trusted authority figure, such as a government official or a technical support representative, and use fear or urgency to pressure the user into providing their information.

Phishing attacks can be detrimental to both individuals and organizations, often resulting in identity theft, financial loss, and data breaches. It is important to be aware of the different types of phishing attempts and the warning signs to protect yourself and your sensitive information.

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Types of Phishing Attempts: Emails, Websites, and Social Media

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