Which of the following best defines a phishing attack?

A phishing attack is best defined as an attempt to obtain sensitive information via deception. This tactic typically involves cybercriminals masquerading as trustworthy entities to trick individuals into divulging personal data, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card information. Phishing is often carried out through emails, messages, or websites that appear legitimate but are designed to mislead the victim.

The focus of a phishing attack is on manipulating the target’s perceptions and exploiting their trust, which is a fundamental aspect of this type of cyber threat. This deception can take many forms, including fraudulent emails that prompt users to click on a link leading to a malicious site, which then captures their sensitive information.

Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing the nuances of cybersecurity threats and developing strategies to mitigate risks associated with social engineering attacks.