What does the term 'phishing' refer to?

The term 'phishing' refers to an attempt to acquire sensitive information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity. This deceptive practice is commonly executed through emails, messages, or websites that appear legitimate in order to trick individuals into revealing personal information such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other confidential data.

Phishing serves as a primary method for cybercriminals to exploit human psychology and leverage trust. By presenting themselves as credible sources—such as banks, reputable companies, or even social contacts—attackers create a sense of urgency or curiosity to prompt a target's response. As a result, victims often unwittingly provide their sensitive information to the attacker.

The relevance of this choice lies in understanding the security implications of phishing within the broader context of information security management. Knowledge of such tactics enables professionals to implement stronger security measures and educate users about recognizing and responding to these threats effectively.