Types of Phishing Attacks

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of cyber attack where attackers impersonate legitimate entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or personal details. These attacks are often carried out via email, phone calls, or fake websites.

Types of Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks come in different forms, each using unique techniques to deceive victims. Some of the most common types include:

Email Phishing

Attackers send fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources like banks, social media platforms, or government agencies. These emails often contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal personal information.

Example: A fake PayPal email asks users to verify their account by clicking on a link, which leads to a fake login page that captures their credentials.

Spear Phishing

This is a targeted phishing attack aimed at specific individuals or organizations. Attackers use personalized information, such as the victim’s name, job title, or contacts, to increase credibility.

Example: A hacker pretends to be a company’s HR department and emails an employee about an urgent password reset, leading them to a fake website.

Vishing (Voice Phishing)

Vishing attacks occur over the phone, where attackers pretend to be from a trusted entity, such as a bank or tech support, to extract sensitive information.

Example: A caller posing as an IRS agent claims the victim owes unpaid taxes and demands immediate payment via gift cards.

Smishing (SMS Phishing)

Smishing uses fraudulent text messages that trick victims into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive data.

Example: A fake delivery notification asks the recipient to click a link and enter their credit card details for a supposed package delivery.

Whaling

Whaling is a sophisticated phishing attack targeting high-profile individuals, such as CEOs or government officials. These attacks often use urgent and convincing messages.

Example: A fake email appearing to be from a company’s CFO instructs an employee to transfer funds to a fraudulent account.

Real-World Phishing Attacks

1. Google and Facebook Scam ($100 Million Fraud)

Between 2013 and 2015, a Lithuanian hacker tricked Google and Facebook into wiring over $100 million to fraudulent bank accounts. The attacker impersonated a legitimate Asian manufacturer and sent fake invoices, which the companies unknowingly paid.

2. Twitter Spear Phishing Attack (2020)

Hackers used spear phishing to gain access to Twitter's internal systems, allowing them to hijack high-profile accounts like those of Elon Musk and Barack Obama. They posted fake Bitcoin giveaway messages, scamming users out of thousands of dollars.

3. Target Data Breach (2013)

A phishing email compromised a third-party vendor, allowing attackers to infiltrate Target’s systems and steal 40 million credit card details. The breach cost Target $18.5 million in settlements.