As organizations face the ongoing threat of social engineering, it becomes essential to strengthen their security measures. Our specialized social engineering services offer a powerful defense against deceptive cyber tactics.
What is social engineering?
So, what exactly is social engineering? In the realm of cybersecurity, social engineering refers to the manipulation of human behavior to deceive individuals into divulging confidential data, granting unauthorized access, or performing actions that compromise security. It’s like a modern-day art of persuasion employed by cybercriminals, aiming to exploit the weakest link in any security chain: us, the humans.
The attacker can apply social engineering by posing as a high-ranking person. For example, a CEO who instructs an employee to make a payment to a certain bank account. This is known as CEO-Fraud.
Why is social engineering successful?
Social engineering attacks take advantage of our inherent trust in others and our willingness to help, creating situations that seem legitimate or urgent. Attackers can impersonate trusted individuals or organizations, send convincing emails or messages, or use psychological manipulation to trick us into disclosing sensitive information or performing actions that jeopardize our security.
The consequences
The risks of falling victim to social engineering tactics are significant and can have severe consequences. Personal information, financial data, or business secrets can be stolen, leading to identity theft, financial loss, or reputational damage. Furthermore, a successful social engineering attack can compromise the security of an entire organization, resulting in data breaches, operational disruption, or regulatory non-compliance.
At Emploware, we understand the gravity of these risks and the need for robust protection against social engineering threats. Our mission is to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools to recognize, defend against, and mitigate the dangers of social engineering attacks.
Types & Services
Perhaps the best-known example of social engineering is email phishing. This occurs when someone receives a credible email and is asked to log in to a website. Once the recipient has logged into the website, the credentials are sent to the attacker, who can then access the account. Emploware offers phishing simulations as a service, to protect your company against this type of attack. However, in addition to phishing, there are other forms of social engineering in which we can support you. What we offer:
- Tailgating: Trying to enter your organization to discover vulnerabilities. For example, not complying with (security) protocols.
- USB-dropping: Concealing a USB stick with our software. The goal? To see if one of your employees puts it into a computer.
- Telephone-Phishing: Call your organization, to see if your employees reveal sensitive information.
The power of social engineering is often forgotten or underestimated. As humans, we are inclined to help and there is a basis of trust. In addition, we are inquisitive.
What to do against social engineering?
Screen everything that has to do with your private and professional life on social media. Activities in your private life can serve as a good basis for building trust.
With both, emails and telephone calls, make sure you are aware that the person on the other end may have other intentions. So never just give out information that you are not supposed to. If necessary, verify the contact with one of your colleagues. Telephone numbers can be spoofed, which means that an attacker who has no relationship with your bank can pretend to call from your bank’s number.
In addition, before clicking on a link in an e-mail, consider whether it really comes from a reliable source. And that the sender really is who he says he is. If in doubt, call again.
Are some terms unfamiliar to you or do you want to learn more about cyber security? Then read our knowledge base articles for more information.
