What does phishing refer to?

Phishing refers to a cyber attack that deceives individuals into sharing sensitive information by posing as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications. This typically involves fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that mimic legitimate organizations to trick users into revealing personal data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers. The attackers often create a sense of urgency or manipulate emotions to compel victims to act quickly without thinking critically about the authenticity of the request.

Understanding phishing is essential for cybersecurity awareness because it highlights the importance of verifying the sources of electronic communications and being cautious about the information shared online. This context is critical for recognizing the threat posed by phishing attempts and implementing appropriate security measures to protect personal and organizational data.