Due to how prevalent they are, phrases like \u201cmalware\u201d and \u201cphishing\u201d have grown quite popular in recent years. However, did you realize that these dubious activities are only a small component of a larger scheme which is \u201csocial engineering\u201d?<\/p>\n
Although the phrase may be new, the practice dates back hundreds of years. Social engineering involves breaking into a secure area to gather private information, and the victims aren\u2019t even aware. Being caught unprepared could potentially result in the demise of your company.<\/p>\n
Today\u2019s businesses rely on technology for many aspects of their operations. This reliance gives social engineers several opportunities to con people into giving them information of all kinds, including the following scams:<\/p>\n
The most common type of social engineering attack is phishing, by far. It\u2019s a simple form of deceit, and that simplicity is part of the reason it works so well. The hacker lures unwary victims to websites that appear realistic and asks them to log in, which many people do without giving it a second thought. You might just as easily hand the hackers the passwords to your network.<\/p>\n
A social engineering attack of this nature is a focused phishing attempt. The scam is almost impossible to spot because it targets specific people. It uses contacts and references that the intended victim already knows. This attack often includes emails that look like they came from your CEO or CFO. Almost no one would ignore that.<\/p>\n
The goal of this tactic, as the name suggests, is to lure the victim into taking the bait. There are various ways to achieve this scam, like informing someone that they have won a prize and then asking them to click on a link to collect the reward. Another tactic is warning them that their computer has been infected and then asking them to click on a link to solve the issue.<\/p>\n
Once a hacker has gained access to your system, there are myriad ways they might steal information or cause havoc with your company. So, getting their foot in the door is very important to these tricky social engineers.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s not as difficult as it might seem to accomplish this physically. Tailgating, or invading the property while posing as an authorized entity, is use frequently. Hackers also use the information they get from public websites or printed material in surprising numbers, especially if they have the patience to keep an eye on the target and are willing to go dumpster diving.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s scary to think how many use social engineering tricks, but if you\u2019re aware, you can avoid them. Simple habits like not opening emails and attachments with suspicious-looking subject lines would be helpful. It\u2019s also a good idea to use multifactor authentication across all platforms and to regularly update your antivirus software.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s in your best interests as a business owner to require all staff to go through training that would give them the knowledge and abilities needed to thwart any social engineering attack. You can check your staff\u2019s knowledge of social engineering and other internet dangers by asking them to complete this\u00a0free cybersecurity quiz.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n