What is phishing?

Phishing is defined as a form of cyber attack designed to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data. This is typically done through fraudulent emails, websites, or messages that appear to be from trustworthy sources, enticing the victim to provide the requested information willingly.

The effectiveness of phishing attacks often hinges on their ability to mimic legitimate communications, which can create a false sense of security for the victim. For example, a phishing email might resemble one from a well-known bank, directing the recipient to a fake website specifically designed to capture their login credentials.

Understanding this concept is crucial in the context of cybersecurity awareness, as recognizing and avoiding phishing attempts can significantly enhance personal and organizational security.