Social engineering

Social engineering is a term used to describe a broad range of manipulative behaviour to trick you into revealing personal or confidential information. 

Means of contact

• Internet
• Email
• Text
• Phone
• Mail

Description of scam
Social engineering fraud leverages human behaviour to trick people into divulging information. Unlike hacking, which involves technical expertise, social engineering exploits human error in order to access private information, networks, data, and other restricted systems. 

Tactics used
Social engineers are practiced in the art of persuasion and know that when exposed to these tactics, many people will take actions they wouldn't otherwise. 

One of these tactics is to use emotional manipulation. You're much more likely to take a risk when in an enhanced emotional state. 

Time-sensitive requests are another tactic in a social engineer's toolbox, as they create a sense of urgency. Gaining your trust is an essential part of the scam. 

Additional information
Read our social engineering article to learn more about this tactic.