Social engineering refers to manipulation tactics that cybercriminals use to trick people into handing over sensitive information or performing actions that compromise security. With the right strategies, you can identify risks and shield yourself.

Be Aware of Common Social Engineering Techniques

The first line of defense is understanding the sneaky ways attackers try to gather intelligence or exploit human psychology:

• Phishing - Authentic-looking emails containing malicious links or attachments that install malware or capture login credentials when entered.

• Vishing - Fraudulent phone calls pretending to be from trusted sources requesting personal or financial information or directing victims to fake websites.

• Baiting - Malware-laden USB flash drives or other devices left around publicly for unsuspecting users to plug into their computers.

• Quid Pro Quo - Offering a service, product, or benefit in exchange for information to leverage human reciprocation tendencies.

• Tailgating - Following someone into a restricted office area or through an access point without proper authentication.

Verify Identities, Emails & Websites

The most common social engineering tactic is spoofing - imitating trusted identities to appear legitimate. Be vigilant:

• Carefully inspect sender names, addresses, URLs as well as website certificates to check for subtle misspellings indicating a scam.

• Never call numbers or click links provided in suspicious communications. Find official contact info independently through an official website or documentation.

• Plug unidentified USB devices into isolated systems to analyze safely using antivirus software if necessary.

Guard Personal & Company Information

Keep sensitive information protected:

• Avoid oversharing personal or company details on social media or with unsolicited contacts.

• Set social media profiles to private. Cybercriminals leverage public info for phishing Content.

• Only disclose confidential data to verified contacts over secured channels based on necessity.

• Secure passwords, multi-factor authentication, endpoint encryption and access controls also help mitigate unauthorized exposure from social engineering.

Think Before You Click or Act

Slow down and use critical thinking before clicking on links/attachments or rushing to help even seemingly legitimate sources:

• Ask yourself why someone is requesting access or information from you and whether it makes sense. Verify unusual requests through a secondary channel.

• Double check sender addresses in emails match who they claim to be representing in the content before clicking anything.

• Don't let fear or a false sense of urgency rush your judgment - this is intended to prey on emotions.

Staying vigilant, verifying identities, keeping information protected and thinking critically can help you recognize and shut down social engineering attempts targeting your personal or company's data.