Assessing and Addressing Social Engineering Attacks
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Date
2025-06-17
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Publisher
Saudi Digital Library
Abstract
In recent years, phishing scams have become one of the most common
methods used to target individuals, affecting millions of users globally every
year. Cybercriminals now use multiple platforms such as social media, text
messages, emails, and voice calls to target victims. Thus, Attackers play on
emotions like fear, urgency, or curiosity to pressure people into acting
quickly without thinking. This study looked at why people fall for these scams.
By surveying 123 participants, we discovered gaps in how people spot
phishing attempts and what makes some more vulnerable than others. The
outcomes provide evidence-based recommendations for mitigating phishing
threats, equipping institutions and governance bodies with
recommendations to enhance public resilience against phishing attacks.
Description
This research is driven by the critical necessity to address the threat of
phishing attacks in our increasingly digitized world. As cybercriminals refine
their tactics, phishing campaigns have grown more advanced and
widespread, indiscriminately targeting individuals across the globe. The
consequences of such attacks are severe, ranging from reputational harm
and financial losses to the compromise of sensitive personal data. These risks
underscore the imperative for robust, adaptive cybersecurity solutions to
counteract phishing’s evolving threat landscape. Central to this study is the
exploration of human centric vulnerabilities specifically, discrepancies in
user awareness, behavior, and risk perception. By analyzing these gaps, the
research aims to empower individuals with evidence-based strategies to
fortify cyber resilience. Strengthening user decisions, fostering a safer digital
ecosystem for future generations.
Keywords
Social Engineering, Cybercrime, Phishing Attacks, Governance bodies, Cyber Risks