Impersonation Attack: A Deceptive Call for Help

What type of attack is the caller performing?

The individual who contacted the help desk technician claiming to be an employee of the organization and requesting assistance to access a locked account is performing which type of attack?

A. Phishing

B. Shoulder surfing

C. Impersonation

D. Dumpster diving

Answer:

The individual who contacted the help desk technician is attempting an attack known as impersonation, which involves posing as a legitimate user or employee to gain unauthorized access.

In this scenario, the individual who contacted the help desk technician is attempting an attack known as impersonation. Impersonation attacks involve an attacker posing as a legitimate user or employee, often with the intention of gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, systems, or networks.

The individual claiming to be an employee of the organization appears to be attempting to trick the help desk technician into granting them access to a locked account. It's important to note that this scenario doesn't fit the descriptions of the other types of attacks listed.

Phishing involves tricking individuals into providing sensitive information, commonly through deceptive emails or websites. Shoulder surfing involves directly observing someone's screen or keyboard to gain information. Dumpster diving involves searching through trash for useful information.

By posing as a legitimate employee, the caller in this scenario is attempting to manipulate the help desk technician into providing access to the locked account without proper authorization. This type of attack can be damaging to an organization's security and highlights the importance of verifying identities before granting access to sensitive information.