Explain the concept of "social engineering".

Social engineering refers to the psychological manipulation of individuals into divulging confidential or personal information that may be used for fraudulent purposes. This tactic exploits human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities, making it a critical area of focus in cybersecurity.

The essence of social engineering lies in the interaction between the attacker and the target. Attackers often pose as trustworthy entities, adapting their approach based on the target's profile, the context, and the environment. Common techniques include phishing emails, pretexting (creating a fabricated scenario), and baiting (offering something enticing to get information).

Understanding social engineering is crucial for individuals and organizations because it highlights the importance of awareness and training in recognizing and responding to these tactics. By focusing on altering behaviors and cultivating a culture of skepticism, individuals can become more resilient against such manipulation.

The other choices, while relevant to cybersecurity, do not pertain to the concept of social engineering. They focus on tools and strategies aimed at enhancing security through technological means rather than psychological tactics.