Spear phishing is a targeted email attack aimed at specific individuals within an organization. Unlike general phishing, spear phishing is personalized and often involves extensive reconnaissance to increase the likelihood of success.
Understanding Spear Phishing:
Targeted Attack: Focuses on specific individuals or groups within an organization.
Customization: Emails are customized based on the recipient's role, interests, or recent activities.
Purpose:
Testing Security Awareness: Evaluates how well individuals recognize and respond to phishing attempts.
Information Gathering: Attempts to collect sensitive information such as credentials, financial data, or personal details.
Process:
Reconnaissance: Gather information about the target through social media, public records, and other sources.
Email Crafting: Create a convincing email that appears to come from a trusted source.
Delivery and Monitoring: Send the email and monitor for responses or actions taken by the recipient.
References from Pentesting Literature:
Spear phishing is highlighted in penetration testing methodologies for testing security awareness and the effectiveness of email filtering systems.
HTB write-ups and phishing simulation exercises often detail the use of spear phishing to assess organizational security.
Step-by-Step ExplanationReferences:
Penetration Testing - A Hands-on Introduction to Hacking
HTB Official Writeups
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