PEOPLE HACKING AWARENESS (SOCIAL ENGINEERING): 3 WHAT IS A SOCIAL ENGINEER (PEOPLE) HACKER

 

When we think of hackers, we often picture someone technically savvy who can write intricate code and exploit complex cybersecurity vulnerabilities. But hacking isn't always about advanced programming skills. Some of the most successful hackers rely on "social engineering" — manipulating human psychology rather than computer systems.

Social engineers are hackers who deceive people into providing access or information. Instead of finding technical flaws, they exploit human tendencies like trust, fear, kindness, and curiosity. Common tactics include phishing emails, fraudulent phone calls asking for sensitive data, and posing as authorized personnel to gain physical access.

For example, a social engineer may call a company posing as an IT worker to trick an employee into disclosing their login credentials. Or they could impersonate a police officer requesting data to trick someone into handing over private information. They can be extremely persuasive.

Some hackers use social engineering exclusively, lacking advanced technical abilities, but they have far more leverage using both technical hacking and social manipulation. Social engineering provides an initial foothold, allowing them to advance their attack.

Defending against social engineers requires awareness, critical thinking, and policies limiting information access. Technical controls alone are inadequate when the weakness lies in human nature. As hacking evolves, understanding the human factors behind cybercrime becomes increasingly important. This series will delve into the psychology and techniques that make social engineering such an effective tool for deception and manipulation.