The Role of Data in Phishing Attacks: How Cybercriminals Build Target Profiles

Phishing attacks have become one of the most prevalent cybersecurity threats, leveraging various tactics to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information. One key component of successful phishing campaigns is the creation of detailed target profiles. Cybercriminals use an array of publicly available data to construct personalized and convincing attack strategies. This article explores how cybercriminals gather and utilize data from social media platforms, public records, and other online sources to build effective phishing profiles. By understanding the role of data in these attacks, organizations and individuals can better defend against targeted phishing attempts. The paper also discusses emerging trends in data-driven phishing techniques, including the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and offers practical insights into how data privacy measures can reduce vulnerability to such threats.