What does the term “email impersonation” refer to?

Email impersonation refers to attacks in which an attacker mimics a legitimate sender, often by spoofing their email address or using techniques to create a message that appears to originate from a trusted source. This can lead to various malicious activities, including phishing, where recipients are tricked into providing sensitive information, downloading malware, or making unauthorized transactions.

The key characteristic of email impersonation is the deliberate deception aimed at exploiting the trust that recipients have in familiar contacts or organizations. By closely mimicking the communication style and appearance of a legitimate sender, attackers can significantly increase the likelihood that their malicious emails will be successful in misleading recipients.

In contrast to this, other options presented do not capture the essence of impersonation. Automatic replies represent a programmed response system, manipulating email formats tends to be more about evading security checks, and aliases are legitimate tools used for managing email addresses rather than impersonation aimed at deception. Understanding the specific threat posed by email impersonation is crucial for recognizing and mitigating such risks effectively.