SOCIAL ENGINEERING: RISK AND COUNTER MEASURES

Abstract: Social engineering, a major cybersecurity threat, exploits human psychology to bypass technical defenses. This paper examines techniques like phishing, pretexting, baiting, tailgating, quid pro quo, and vishing, which manipulate victims to reveal confidential information or breach security protocols. The associated risks include financial loss, identity theft, reputational damage, operational disruption, and legal consequences. Countermeasures such as education and awareness programs, multifactor authentication, strict access controls, and advanced technologies like AI and machine learning are essential to mitigate these threats. Understanding human behavior and training people can greatly reduce the risk of social engineering attacks, strengthening overall cybersecurity defenses.

Keywords: Social engineering, social attacks, social technology, phishing, information security social engineer, cyber attacks, computer network, malware, Information security.