We are in a digital era where technologies keep evolving, innovations keep emerging and more problems being solved. On the flip side, we are exposed to even more risks and vulnerabilities left out by these technologies as they evolve.
End users of these technologies are often the weakest link to compromise security. A software company can tighten the security of their service and data protection but preventing users from revealing their passwords or sensitive information is simply out of their control.
This article will highlight 6 social engineering tactics you should know to safeguard yourself on the internet.
What is Social Engineering?
Social engineering is a tactic that cybercriminals use to trick online victims into revealing sensitive information such as user credentials(username/password) or banking details to gain access to your confidential data or solicit a monetary payment.
The goal is simply impersonating your online identity to perform an activity on your behalf. This is a critical incident to happen which is why you need to stay updated about the current tactics and techniques adversaries are using to safeguard yourself. Below are some social engineering tactics you should know to keep you alert.
6 Social Engineering Tactics You Should Know
1. Deepfake
Deepfake is an effective way of luring users into taking actions that compromise their security. It leverages artificial intelligence(AI) to create realistic and convincing media, such as videos, audio, and images, that can deceive almost everybody on Earth.
As AI continues to evolve, these are some of the risks it poses and it’s required of us to stay vigilant in this AI-centric era.
2. Quid Pro Quo
Quid pro quo is a form of social engineering where attackers offer a service or help in exchange for personal information or access to a computer system.
Imagine an attacker setting up a fake survey or questionnaire and reaching out to potential victims via email or phone, claiming to represent a well-known company conducting research. The attacker offers a reward, such as gift cards or products, in exchange for the participant answering a few simple questions.
Detecting whether legitimate or not can be difficult especially if you are not tech savvy. The best option is to avoid such situations.
3. Phishing
Phishing is the deliberate attempt to steal sensitive information without your notice. This attack is often calculated and launched via text message, email or phone calls to earn your trust to reveal your confidential data and boom they cause harm.
It can be stealing money from your bank account, deleting sensitive data from your company’s database, spreading misinformation or chatting with your contacts or friends on your behalf.
4. Spear Phishing
This type of phishing attack is directly targeted at prominent people or groups spearheading an organization hence the name “spear phishing”. Adversaries have the notion that once the spearheads are defeated, the organization’s entire security is compromised.
5. Vishing
A type of phishing attack launched via phone calls with the intent to gather information that will be used against you while appearing legitimate. They try to create a sense of urgency demanding you take immediate action. For instance, receiving a call from your bank informing you of your compromised account and demanding certain information.
The first red flag is your bank will never call you without your notice let alone ask you for any information. They already have your information. Be Vigilant!
6. Baiting
Baiting is the type of social engineering tactics you should know that uses false promises to leverage a victim’s greed or curiosity. They often appear attempting and convincing like winning a prize or earning a reward without a work done.
In conclusion this article emphasized on the social engineering tactics you should know. While browsing the internet, it’s crucial to avoid clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Enable multi-factor authentication, limit sharing personal information on social media, and stay updated on the latest techniques used by adversaries.
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