What is the definition of "social engineering" in cybersecurity?

The correct definition of "social engineering" in cybersecurity is the manipulation of individuals into divulging confidential information. This technique exploits human psychology rather than relying solely on technical hacking methods. Attackers may create a false sense of urgency, establish trust, or use emotional appeals to encourage individuals to reveal sensitive data such as passwords or financial information.

Understanding social engineering is crucial in cybersecurity because even the most advanced technical defenses can be bypassed if a user is tricked into providing access. This highlights the importance of training and awareness programs for individuals to recognize and defend against these deceptive practices, illustrating that human behavior is often the weakest link in information security.