Phishing is a form of cybercrime where attackers attempt to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal details, by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications. Here's how it typically works:
1. **Crafting a Deceptive Message**: Attackers create a fraudulent email, message, or website that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank, online service, or trusted organization. These messages often use familiar branding, logos, and language to create a sense of credibility.
2. **Enticing the Victim**: The message often includes a sense of urgency or fear, prompting the recipient to act quickly. For instance, it might claim that there is unusual activity on their account, requiring immediate verification, or offer a tempting prize or opportunity.
3. **Providing a Link or Attachment**: The message usually contains a link to a fake website designed to look like the legitimate site or an attachment that may