Information Technology Specialist (ITS) Cybersecurity Practice Exam

Which type of communication involves sending fraudulent messages to lure victims into revealing account information?

1. Phishing

2. Spear phishing

3. Smishing

4. Vishing

The correct answer is: Phishing

Phishing is the practice of sending fraudulent messages, typically through email, designed to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information such as account credentials, passwords, and personal identification. Phishing attacks leverage social engineering tactics to create a sense of urgency or fear, compelling victims to click on links or provide information willingly. The reason phishing is the correct answer in this context is that it encompasses a broad range of deceptive communications, making it the most recognizable and common form of this type of attack. Phishing can target individuals indiscriminately, aiming to gather a wide array of information from as many people as possible. Other forms of phishing, such as spear phishing, focus on targeted attacks against specific individuals or organizations, utilizing personalized information to increase the chances of success. Smishing refers to phishing conducted through SMS messages, and vishing involves voice calls to deceive victims. While these methods are also forms of phishing, they represent more specialized types of attacks, which is why phishing remains the general category encompassing them all.