What is Social Engineering? How Cybercriminals Trick You
Introduction
We live in a technology-driven era where mobile phones, the internet, emails, and social media have become integral parts of daily life. However, with increased technology usage, the risk of cyberattacks has also grown exponentially.
Cybercriminals no longer rely solely on hacking software or systems—they exploit human emotional weaknesses. The technique that targets a person’s trust is called social engineering.
What is Social Engineering?
Definition
Social engineering is a type of cybercrime where attackers manipulate human behavior and psychology to obtain confidential information. Unlike technical hacks, social engineering relies on building trust and deceiving victims to gain sensitive data.
Why is it Dangerous?
- Users often give away information willingly.
- Systems and antivirus software cannot detect it immediately.
- Exploits psychological trust.
- It is a cheap and easy method for hackers.
Major Types of Social Engineering
1. Phishing
Description
Tricking users through fake emails or websites.
Example: “Your account will be suspended; click this link immediately.”
How to Identify
- Fake Gmail or bank logos
- Unknown URLs or shortened links
- Spelling mistakes in the message
2. Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Description
Attacks conducted via phone calls, where the attacker pretends to be a bank, company, or government official.
Example
“Suspicious activity detected in your bank account. Please provide your OTP.”
3. Smishing (SMS Phishing)
Description
Fake SMS messages containing links that trick users into clicking.
How to Identify
- Messages from unknown numbers
- Urgent requests to click a link
- Tempting offers, e.g., “You’ve won $10,000”
4. Pretexting
Description
Hackers create a false pretext, such as posing as journalists, government officers, or IT support, to extract information.
Example
“We detected malware on your computer. Please install TeamViewer for assistance.”
5. Baiting
Description
Uses the promise of free gifts or content to trick users into downloading malware.
Example
“Download a free premium Netflix account here” — clicking triggers malware activation.
How Do Cybercriminals Trick You?
1. Playing with Emotions and Fear
- Fear: “Your account will be suspended”
- Greed: “You’ve won a lucky draw”
- Sympathy: “I am sick, please help me”
2. Collecting Information from Social Media
- Birthdays, school, office, and location data from Facebook
- Such information helps gain the victim’s trust
Are You at Risk?
You may be at risk if you:
- Frequently shop online
- Open emails from unknown senders
- Share personal details on Facebook
- Don’t use OTP or extra security
If two or more of these apply to you, you are likely at risk.
How to Protect Yourself? (Effective Prevention Tips)
Use Strong Passwords
- At least 12 characters with symbols, numbers, and capital letters
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Not just passwords, but OTP verification is mandatory
Never Click Unknown Links
Avoid Logging in on Public Wi-Fi
Take Regular Cybersecurity Awareness Training
Real-Life Example of Social Engineering
Case Study (Nepal)
A bank user in Kathmandu received an SMS about “account suspension.” Clicking the link initiated an eBanking login session. Within minutes, 100,000 NPR was stolen from their account.
How it happened:
- The SMS was fake
- The link led to a counterfeit website
- The user voluntarily provided all information to the hacker
FAQs
1. How dangerous is a social engineering attack?
Extremely dangerous — it can compromise not only your data but also financial resources.
2. Are children also targeted?
Yes, children can easily fall for fake games, giveaways, and similar lures.
3. Can antivirus software protect me?
Only partially. Social engineering is psychological; antivirus software detects only malicious software.
Conclusion
Social engineering is one of the most silent and impactful cyberattacks today. It does not exploit technical vulnerabilities but targets human awareness and emotions.
An aware user is a safe user.
Final Message
“If your mind is not secure, your system can never be truly safe.”
