Social engineering: what it is and how to avoid it
Cybercriminals not only try to compromise systems, but they also try to trick you into giving them access to your information. This is known as social engineering.
What is social engineering?
Let’s think of social engineering as a fishing expedition.
In this case, the fisherman is the criminal and we are his target.
To successfully trap us, you need three key elements:
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A draft: This is the medium through which the message will reach you. It can be an email, a WhatsApp message, a text message, a phone call, or even a message on social media.
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A lure: The criminal will use something too good or too bad to grab your attention and rush you into action. Phrases like “There was a problem with your account, resolve it within 24 hours” or “You won an exclusive prize, claim it now” aim to create urgency and get you to take the bait.
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The bait: Once you fall for the trap, comes the final blow. It could be a file they ask you to download and run (contaminating your device) or information you end up handing over, such as passwords, card details, or security codes.
How to protect yourself from social engineering
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Always be wary: If someone asks you for personal information, take a minute to analyze the situation. Urgency is one of the most common traps used by cybercriminals.
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Check senders and links: Fraudulent emails often have unusual email addresses or misspelled company names. Hover over links before clicking and verify they actually lead to an official website.
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Don’t share your passwords: Neither passwords, security codes, nor credit card details, even if it seems like a trusted entity is asking for them.
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Contact through official channels: If you have any questions, do not reply to the message or call the number provided. Find the official contact information on the company’s website and contact them directly.
Cybercriminals play on your emotions to make you act quickly and without thinking. Protect your information, and with it, your peace of mind and your money.
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