What is "phishing"?

Phishing is a technique used to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information, often through deceptive emails, messages, or websites that appear legitimate but are designed to trick users into revealing personal details such as usernames, passwords, or financial information. This type of social engineering attack exploits human psychology and trust, making it effective in gathering confidential information that can be used for identity theft or fraud.

The correct answer highlights the essence of phishing, focusing on the manipulative nature of the act to gain access to sensitive data under false pretenses. Understanding this definition is critical for managers and cybersecurity professionals as it underscores the importance of employee training and awareness programs to recognize and avoid such attacks. Ensuring that individuals can identify suspicious communications helps mitigate the risk of falling victim to phishing scams.