Social Engineering
Social engineering uses psychological manipulation to trick people into revealing sensitive information or performing actions that benefit the attacker. Learn to recognize and resist these sophisticated manipulation tactics.
Threat category
Of cyberattacks use social engineering
Lost to social engineering
Common Social Engineering Tactics
Tech Support Scams
Fake technical support calls claiming to fix computer issues
Examples
- Microsoft/Windows support scams
- Apple/iCloud support fraud
- Internet service provider scams
- Software update fraud
Prevention
- Never give remote access to strangers
- Hang up on unsolicited tech support calls
- Contact official support channels directly
- Be skeptical of pop-up warnings
Banking Verification Scams
Fake calls claiming to verify banking information
Examples
- Account verification calls
- Card blocking threats
- Suspicious transaction alerts
- Banking app update scams
Prevention
- Never share banking details over phone
- Call bank directly using official number
- Verify caller identity independently
- Be cautious of urgent requests
Job Offer Frauds
Fake job opportunities designed to steal money or information
Examples
- Work-from-home scams
- Fake recruitment agencies
- Advance fee fraud
- Data entry job scams
Prevention
- Research companies before applying
- Never pay for job opportunities
- Verify job offers through official channels
- Be cautious of high-paying easy jobs
Romance Scams
Fake romantic relationships to extract money or information
Examples
- Online dating fraud
- Catfishing schemes
- Military romance scams
- Emergency money requests
Prevention
- Be cautious of online relationships
- Never send money to online contacts
- Verify identity through video calls
- Research person's background
Red Flags: Warning Signs of Social Engineering
Be alert to these common tactics used by social engineers to manipulate and deceive.
Unsolicited calls or messages
Pressure to act quickly
Requests for personal information
Threats of account closure or legal action
Offers that seem too good to be true
Requests for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency
What to Do If You're Targeted
Stop Communication
Immediately stop all communication with the scammer
Secure Accounts
Change passwords and enable 2FA on all accounts
Document Evidence
Save all messages, emails, and call records
Report Incident
Report to cybercrime portal and relevant authorities
Report Social Engineering Attempts
Even if you didn't fall victim, reporting social engineering attempts helps protect others and track patterns.
Stay Alert and Protected
Learn more about social engineering tactics and how to protect yourself and your family from manipulation.