What does the term 'social engineering' refer to in cybersecurity?

The term 'social engineering' in cybersecurity specifically refers to the manipulation of individuals to divulge confidential information. This involves exploiting human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. Social engineers leverage tactics such as deception, impersonation, and trust-building to persuade individuals to reveal sensitive data, such as passwords, personal identification numbers (PINs), or other confidential information that can compromise security.

This approach is particularly effective because it targets the human element of security—people are often the weakest link in a security strategy. Cybercriminals may use various methods, such as phishing emails, phone calls pretending to be a legitimate entity, or social media interactions, to create a false sense of urgency or authenticity. Recognizing this tactic is crucial for enhancing cybersecurity awareness and training, as it highlights the importance of being cautious and vigilant in both personal and organizational interactions regarding sensitive information.