In the context of cybersecurity, what is phishing?

Phishing is a cybersecurity technique that involves attempts to deceive individuals into providing confidential information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other sensitive data. This is typically carried out through fraudulent communications, often appearing to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, online services, or well-known companies. The deception can occur via email, social media messages, or even phone calls.

The key aspect of phishing is its nature as a form of social engineering, where attackers exploit human psychology to trick users into making security mistakes. By mimicking a trustworthy entity, they create a sense of urgency or trust, prompting the victim to disclose sensitive information or click on suspicious links that may lead to malware installations. Understanding phishing helps individuals recognize risks and take proactive steps to protect their personal and financial information from cybercriminals.