Understanding Social Engineering: How Hackers Manipulate You

Introduction

In today’s technology-driven world, smartphones, the internet, emails, and social media are part of our everyday life. However, the more we rely on technology, the higher the chances of cyber threats.

Modern hackers don’t just exploit software—they manipulate human emotions. Attacks that target an individual’s trust fall under the realm of social engineering.

What Exactly is Social Engineering?

Definition

Social engineering is a cybercrime method where attackers exploit human psychology to steal confidential information. Unlike technical hacks, this approach relies on gaining trust and deceiving individuals.

Why is it a Serious Threat?

• Users often willingly provide sensitive information.
• Antivirus programs may not detect these attacks immediately.
• Relies on exploiting psychological trust.
• Cost-effective and simple for hackers.

Common Types of Social Engineering

1. Phishing

Overview

Tricking users through fraudulent emails or websites.
Example: “Your account is at risk. Click here immediately.”

Warning Signs

• Fake logos mimicking Gmail or banks
• Suspicious URLs or link shorteners
• Typos and grammatical errors

2. Vishing (Voice Phishing)

Overview

Phone-based attacks where hackers impersonate banks, companies, or government officials.

Example

“Suspicious transactions detected in your account. Share your OTP immediately.”

3. Smishing (SMS Phishing)

Overview

SMS-based attacks that lure victims into clicking malicious links.

Signs to Watch For

• Messages from unknown numbers
• Urgent instructions to click
• Tempting rewards like “You’ve won a cash prize”

4. Pretexting

Overview

Attackers create a fabricated story, pretending to be journalists, government officers, or IT support, to extract confidential information.

Example

“We detected malware on your system. Please install TeamViewer to fix it.”

 5. Baiting

Overview

Uses the promise of free products or content to trick users into downloading malware.

Example

“Get a free premium Netflix account here.” Clicking activates malware instantly.

How Hackers Trick You

1. Exploiting Emotions and Fear

• Fear tactics: “Your account will be closed”
• Greed: “Congratulations! You won a prize”
• Sympathy: “I am unwell, please help me”

2. Gathering Social Media Information

• Personal details like birthdays, workplace, and locations from Facebook
• Helps hackers gain trust quickly

Are You Vulnerable?

You could be at risk if you:

• Frequently shop online
• Open unknown emails
• Share personal info on social media
• Don’t use OTP or enhanced security

Two or more of these habits suggest a higher risk of attack.

How to Stay Protected

Use Complex Passwords

• Minimum 12 characters including symbols, numbers, and uppercase letters

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Require OTP verification along with passwords

Avoid Clicking Unknown Links

Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi for Logins

Attend Regular Cybersecurity Awareness Training

Real-Life Example from Nepal

Case Study

A Kathmandu bank user received an SMS claiming “account blocked.” After clicking the link, their eBanking session started, and 100,000 NPR was stolen within minutes.

Reason:

• The SMS was fake
• The link led to a counterfeit website
• The user voluntarily shared all details with the hacker

FAQs

1. Are social engineering attacks dangerous?
Very dangerous—they can compromise data and financial resources.

2. Can children fall victim?
Yes, games, fake giveaways, and similar tactics can easily trap children.

3. Can antivirus software prevent it?
Only partially. Social engineering targets psychology, while antivirus detects malicious software.

Conclusion

Social engineering is one of the most subtle and effective cyberattacks today. It targets human awareness rather than system flaws.

Awareness is the key to online safety.

Final Note

“Your system can never be secure if your mind isn’t prepared.”