phishing

Phishing

A cyberattack that uses fraudulent emails, text messages, or websites to trick people into revealing sensitive information. Attackers impersonate trusted entities to steal credentials, financial data, or install malware.

Extended Explanation

Phishing is the most common form of social engineering and remains the leading cause of data breaches worldwide. Attacks range from mass-distributed generic emails to highly targeted campaigns. Modern phishing often bypasses traditional email filters by using legitimate services, compromised accounts, or zero-day domains. Organizations combat phishing through security awareness training, email filtering, multi-factor authentication, and phishing simulation programs.