What does phishing mean in the context of cybersecurity?

In the context of cybersecurity, phishing refers to a cyber attack that attempts to obtain sensitive information by impersonating a legitimate entity. This technique often involves deceptive emails, messages, or websites that appear trustworthy, tricking individuals into divulging personal data such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other sensitive information. The effectiveness of phishing attacks lies in their ability to exploit human psychology, relying on the recipient's trust in recognized brands or trusted contacts.

Phishing can take various forms, including spear phishing, which targets specific individuals or organizations, and whale phishing, aimed at high-profile targets like executives. Understanding phishing is crucial for developing robust cybersecurity awareness and training programs to help individuals recognize and respond to these threats mindful of the importance of verifying communications and safeguarding personal information.