Cyber threats come in many forms, and many of the most dangerous are not easily recognizable. Instead of relying on technology-based attacks that can be stopped with firewalls or software updates, many threat actors are moving towards newer, far more insidious tactics. These methods are capable of entirely bypassing traditional security measures, leaving your business vulnerable. The consequences can range from downtime to severe data, financial, and reputational losses.
But you can prevent this, by understanding the threat and how to stop it. So what is a social engineering tactic? And what can you do to avoid falling victim?
What is a Social Engineering Tactic?
Social engineering tactics, in information security, refer to any cyber threat that relies on manipulation to achieve its goals. Rather than exploiting vulnerabilities within hardware or software, these strategies take advantage of your organization’s weakest link: Human error. Threat actors will attempt to manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information or performing actions that compromise your business’ security.
Which Tactics Do Social Engineers Use?
Some common social engineering tactics that attackers use include:
1. Pretexting
Pretexting is a type of attack where threat actors create a false scenario to gain trust and extract information. They may pose as a coworker, a vendor, or even law enforcement to persuade individuals to perform the desired action.
2. Phishing Scams
One of the most common tactics used in social engineering attacks, phishing is when a threat actor deploys fake emails, text messages, or phone calls that appear legitimate. They may impersonate a trusted entity, such as a bank or employer, to trick their victim.
3. Baiting
Baiting is a slightly different strategy that relies on enticement, whereas the two listed above often exploit fear. This attack offers something desirable to lure victims into a trap. For example, they may create a fake software download that offers free access to premium content. In reality, this software simply downloads malware onto your device.
4. Tailgating and Piggybacking
These methods both involve gaining unauthorized access to a physical location by following someone through a door. Tailgating means sneaking in unnoticed, while piggybacking is when a threat actor convinces staff they have a legitimate reason to be there.
5. Scareware
Scareware is software that plays on fear by displaying urgent warnings, convincing users to download malware. For instance, a pop-up may claim your computer is infected with a virus and encourage you to install “Security software”.
How to Defend Yourself
The Tell-Tale Signs of Common Social Engineering Tactics
Understanding which tactics social engineers use to manipulate individuals is the first step in stopping them. Learn to recognize them. While modern technology is making them more convincing, and the various types of social engineering tactics can be hard to keep track of, there are always certain giveaways they cannot hide. For example:
- Threat actors almost always attempt to elicit an emotional response and a sense of urgency. They do this because it prevents you from thinking things through.
- What they’re saying may feel ‘not quite right’. You may notice small discrepancies.
- Contact details, such as email addresses, may not be accurate.
- They will discourage you from independently verifying what they have told you.
- There is always a “Call to action”. They want you to do something – usually download an application, click on a link, or provide sensitive information.
If one or more of these signs are present, proceed with caution.
How to Protect Your Business
While social engineering techniques bypass traditional security measures, there is still plenty you can do to stop them:
- Be Skeptical: Avoiding taking anything at face value. Implement a Zero Trust policy: “Never trust, always verify”. Ensure that everyone follows it. Do not click on suspicious links or downloads, and check email addresses.
- Implement Security Awareness Training: Educate all staff members on safe password practices, the signs of common social engineering tactics used by hackers, and when they should make a report.
- Create a Security-First Culture: Develop a strong workplace culture that values cybersecurity. Reward employees who do the right thing.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA helps reduce the risk associated with stolen login credentials, by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access to accounts.
- Use Email Filters: Most providers can automatically filter out suspicious emails. While it is not perfect, it will reduce the number of phishing attacks that make it to inboxes.
When the Best Defense is Asking for Help
You may be too busy, or lack the necessary resources, to implement all of these defense strategies on your own. In this case, partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) can be invaluable. Managed security is significantly less expensive than hiring an in-house security team, making it an attractive option for businesses with a tight budget.
An MSP can:
- Monitor your systems 24/7 for suspicious activity.
- Provide advanced security solutions that reduce your chances of experiencing a cyber-attack.
- Educate your employees on recognizing and avoiding threats.
Do you have compliance concerns? Find out how Ascentient can help
Give Your Frontline the Skills They Need to Stop Social Engineering Attacks
Social engineering attacks are versatile and insidious – but they are preventable. These tactics rely entirely on psychological manipulation and a lack of knowledge. By learning how they work and watching for the signs, you take their power away. Some simple defensive actions now can prevent a major security breach in the future, protecting your business, customers, and staff.
The cybersecurity experts at Ascentient can equip your team to become your strongest line of defence, with comprehensive awareness training designed to target their knowledge gaps. We ensure that your staff are part of the solution, not the problem. Discover how security awareness training can protect your business now.