What does the term "phishing" refer to?

The term "phishing" refers to a type of cyber attack that is designed to steal sensitive information from individuals by masquerading as a trustworthy source. This typically involves the use of deceptive emails or websites that appear legitimate, prompting users to provide personal data, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card numbers.

Cyber attackers employ this tactic because it exploits human psychology, often relying on urgency or fear to increase the likelihood that the target will engage with the fraudulent content. Recognizing the characteristics of phishing attempts—such as poor spelling, unsolicited requests for information, or unfamiliar sender addresses—is crucial for effective cybersecurity practices.

Understanding phishing is particularly important because it highlights the need for vigilance in online interactions and reinforces the necessity for training individuals to recognize and respond to such threats effectively. This knowledge is a foundational component of cybersecurity awareness, particularly within the context of protecting personal and organizational information.