What is a characteristic of social engineering attacks?

Social engineering attacks are characterized primarily by their use of psychological manipulation to deceive individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. These attacks take advantage of human emotions, such as trust, fear, or curiosity, to elicit responses that can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or systems.

While technology plays a significant role in many types of attacks, social engineering specifically targets human behavior rather than systems or software vulnerabilities. This approach allows attackers to bypass sophisticated security measures that rely on technological defenses, emphasizing the importance of human vigilance in security protocols.

Social engineering does not exclusively occur through electronic means; it can also happen in person or over the phone. Furthermore, it does not require the attacker to gain physical access to the target, as many social engineering tactics can be executed remotely. Understanding the psychological aspects of these attacks aids organizations and individuals in recognizing and mitigating potential risks.