Phishing comes in many forms, all aiming to trick people into giving up sensitive information or installing malware. Here are the most common types:
- Email Phishing – The most widespread type, where attackers send fake emails that appear to be from trusted sources, urging users to click links or download attachments.
- Spear Phishing – A targeted attack aimed at specific individuals or organizations, often personalized using information gathered from social media or past breaches.
- Whaling – A form of spear phishing aimed at high-profile targets like executives or decision-makers, typically involving fake requests for wire transfers or sensitive data.
- Smishing – Phishing via SMS text messages. These messages often include malicious links or prompt urgent action, like verifying a bank account.
- Vishing – Voice phishing conducted over the phone. Attackers pose as banks, tech support, or government agents to extract personal or financial information.
- Angler Phishing – Happens on social media, where attackers impersonate customer service accounts to lure victims into revealing credentials or clicking malicious links.
- Clone Phishing – A legitimate email is copied and slightly modified to include a malicious link or attachment, then sent from a spoofed address to appear trustworthy.
Each type uses deception to exploit trust, urgency, or curiosity—making phishing one of the most persistent and damaging cyber threats today.
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