What is phishing?

Phishing is accurately defined as a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy entity. It typically involves malicious actors posing as reputable organizations, often using emails, text messages, or websites that appear legitimate. The primary goal of phishing is to deceive individuals into providing personal information, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card numbers, which can then be exploited for identity theft or financial gain.

The core of phishing lies in its reliance on deception, exploiting the trust that individuals have in known entities. This method can take many forms, including but not limited to, emails that seem to come from banks, social media platforms, or online service providers, urging users to click a link and enter their private information.

Other options do not accurately represent the concept of phishing. While malware and secure connections are important in the context of online security, they refer to different aspects of cybersecurity and do not relate to the deceptive tactics involved in phishing attempts. Similarly, methods of data encryption focus more on protecting data rather than the manipulation and deceit that characterize phishing. Recognizing phishing is crucial as it helps individuals protect their personal and sensitive information from being compromised.