Which type of hacking method is exemplified by spear phishing?

Spear phishing is characterized by custom targeted manipulation of specific individuals or organizations, which is why this choice is the correct answer. Unlike broader phishing attempts that send generic messages to a large number of people, spear phishing campaigns are meticulously crafted, often using personal information gathered through reconnaissance. This tailored approach makes spear phishing more convincing and increases the chances of success in deceiving the target into divulging sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.

By focusing on specific individuals, attackers can exploit personal connections or familiarity, enhancing the psychological manipulation involved in the attack. Understanding this method is crucial in information security, as it highlights the importance of being vigilant about the possibility of personalized attacks that are more difficult to detect and defend against.