Uncover the sinister role of social engineering in Cyber Attacks
As we continue to make dramatic advancements in the digital and tech space, the threat of cybercriminals has grown significantly, and the methods used aren’t just limited to viruses and ransomware.
What is social engineering and how’s it used in cyberattacks?
When cybercriminals use social engineering tactics, they aim to psychologically manipulate their victims for their own gain. This often includes handing over sensitive information or transferring large amounts of money to an unknown account. These attacks can occur at any time, through text, email, phone calls and social media chat facilities.
How to recognise a social engineering attack
Cybercriminals are changing their methods all the time, so there’s no exact formula that makes up a social engineering attack – but there are red flags to look out for.
These include:
Requesting information or money access
Evoking a sense of urgency in the email
Short and concise
Asking you to donate to a charitable cause
Asking you to verify information
Responding to a question you did not ask
Using fear tactics – threats or intimidation
Offering you something too good to be true
How to protect yourself against a social engineering cyber attack
When it comes to protecting yourself and your business against cybercrime, you need to remain vigilant and think before you click.
• Ensure your staff are trained
• Anti-virus software
• Always check the sender
• Simulate social engineering attacks in-house
• Monitor your digital footprint
• Get Cyber Insurance
Despite nearly 40% of all UK businesses reporting at least one cyber-attack in the last 12 months1 , businesses are still not taking the threat of cyber-attacks seriously enough. Cyber Insurance is designed to protect your business in the aftermath of an attack, including investigation, data recovery, loss of income, reputation management and more.
1 Source: Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2022