Learn: Social Engineering

Welcome!Today we'll learn about Social Engineering, a key concept in cybersecurity. This lesson is tailored to help you build a strong foundation. Let's dive in!

What is Social Engineering?Social Engineering is a method used by cybercriminals to trick people into giving away sensitive information or access. Instead of hacking systems directly, they exploit human psychology. It's important to understand this so you can recognise and avoid these types of attacks.

Common Types of Social EngineeringThere are various ways attackers use social engineering, including:Phishing: Fake emails or websites designed to steal information.Baiting: Offering free items (e.g., USB drives) that contain malware.Pretexting: Pretending to be someone trustworthy to gain access.

Phishing ExplainedPhishing is one of the most common social engineering attacks. It involves sending fake emails that appear to be from trusted sources. For example, an attacker might send an email pretending to be your bank, requesting your log-in details. Recognising phishing attempts is key to avoiding them.

Baiting and PretextingBaiting uses physical objects, such as USB drives, to tempt you into compromising your system. Pretexting involves creating a believable story to gain trust. For instance, someone might pretend to be IT staff asking for your password.

Signs of Social EngineeringHere are some common signs:Unexpected requests for sensitive information.Urgent or threatening language.Offers that seem too good to be true.Requests to click on unknown links or download files.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about Social Engineering, including its types and signs. Let's test your understanding.

Well done!You’ve completed the lesson on Social Engineering. Remember to stay alert and protect your information from potential threats. Keep up the great work!