What does the term 'social engineering' refer to in cybersecurity?

The term 'social engineering' in cybersecurity specifically refers to the manipulation of individuals into revealing sensitive information, often by exploiting human psychology. This technique is employed by attackers who may pose as trusted figures, such as colleagues or technical support, to deceive victims into disclosing personal information, passwords, or other confidential data.

This definition highlights the importance of understanding human factors in cybersecurity. Unlike technical attacks that focus solely on software or systems, social engineering exploits vulnerabilities in human trust and behavior. This can occur through various methods, including phishing emails, phone scams, or in-person deception, and is a critical area of concern for cybersecurity professionals, especially in environments like marine safety, where sensitive data is crucial for operations.

Recognizing the tactics used in social engineering is essential for training personnel to identify and resist such manipulation, thereby protecting sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of operations.