What is vishing?

Vishing, short for voice phishing, refers specifically to a type of phishing attack that utilizes voice communication, often over the telephone. In this method, attackers impersonate legitimate entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as personal identification details or financial information. This is accomplished by creating a sense of urgency or trust, making the potential victim believe they are speaking with a trustworthy source.

Understanding how vishing operates is critical in the context of security and compliance because it highlights the need for individuals and organizations to remain vigilant, not just in online communications but also in direct voice interactions. This kind of attack has become increasingly prevalent as attackers leverage technology to reach targets more personally, thereby increasing the likelihood of success. Recognizing this method is essential for implementing effective security protocols and training for staff to safeguard against such threats.

In contrast, the other options specify irrelevant concepts such as malware downloading, secure data transfer protocols, and antivirus software, which do not pertain to the specific nature of vishing as a voice-based phishing tactic.