What is the concept of social engineering in cybersecurity?

The concept of social engineering in cybersecurity refers to the psychological manipulation of individuals to gain confidential or sensitive information. This tactic leverages human psychology rather than technical hacking techniques, making it particularly effective because it targets the human element within security systems.

Social engineers often pose as trustworthy entities—like coworkers, technical support personnel, or even acquaintances—to trick individuals into revealing passwords, account numbers, or other personal data. This method exploits cognitive biases, social norms, and emotions, creating scenarios where the victim may feel compelled to comply without realizing the risks involved.

Awareness and training are crucial in combatting social engineering attacks, as these incidents often occur when individuals are unprepared to recognize the signs of manipulation. Understanding this concept is essential in developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.