In email security, what does phishing generally refer to?

Phishing refers to a fraudulent attempt designed to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal details. This is typically accomplished through deceptive emails or messages that appear to come from reputable sources. The goal is to trick the recipient into clicking on malicious links or providing their information directly to the attacker, often by imitating trusted entities like banks or online services.

Understanding phishing is crucial for implementing effective email security measures, as it is one of the most common threats faced by organizations and individuals. By recognizing and mitigating the risks associated with phishing attempts, organizations can better protect themselves from potential data breaches and financial loss. This knowledge is fundamental in the realm of securing email communications against various social engineering tactics employed by cybercriminals.