What is a key characteristic of spear phishing attacks?

Spear phishing attacks are characterized by their targeted approach, focusing on specific individuals or groups rather than casting a wide net like traditional phishing attempts. This personalized strategy often involves gathering detailed information about the target, such as their role within an organization, interests, or connections, allowing attackers to craft convincing messages that increase the likelihood of success.

The specificity in the attacks is what differentiates spear phishing from more general phishing scams, which typically aim at a broad audience without a personalized strategy. By honing in on particular victims, attackers can exploit trust and familiarity, making their fraudulent requests appear more legitimate. This tailored approach is what makes spear phishing particularly dangerous and effective.