Social engineering is one of the most commonly used techniques by cybercriminals to gain access to sensitive information or corporate systems. It exploits human vulnerabilities, such as trust, fear, or curiosity, to deceive people and achieve their goals. In the corporate environment, the consequences can be devastating, including data theft, financial fraud, and even operational downtime.
In this article, you will understand what social engineering is, learn about real-life examples, identify the risks to companies, and discover effective ways to protect yourself.
What is Social Engineering?
Social engineering is a psychological manipulation technique used by cybercriminals to deceive people into disclosing confidential information or performing actions that compromise system security.
Instead of directly hacking IT systems, criminals target the weakest link in the chain: people. This can include employees, suppliers, or even customers.
Real-Life Examples of Social Engineering
- Nubank Case (2021):
- Criminals posed as Nubank employees, sending fake messages via messaging apps like WhatsApp. They tricked clients into clicking on fraudulent links or sharing passwords, resulting in financial losses.
- Ministry of Health Case (2021):
- During the pandemic, hackers used social engineering to gain access to Ministry of Health systems. They sent phishing emails (fake messages with malicious links) posing as official communications, infecting machines and stealing sensitive data.
- Banco do Brasil Case (2022):
- Criminals called bank employees pretending to be IT technicians. During the calls, they asked employees to install programs that enabled remote control of systems. The scam resulted in the transfer of funds from corporate accounts.
These cases demonstrate how adaptable social engineering is and how it affects companies of all sizes.
Understand the Risks of Social Engineering
Social engineering attacks have serious consequences for companies. Here are the main risks:
- Theft of Confidential Data:
- Cybercriminals can access data such as financial information, system passwords, and personal client data. This information can be used for fraud, sold on the dark web, or for blackmail.
- Financial Fraud:
- By manipulating employees, criminals can gain access to the company’s bank accounts or payment systems, executing fraudulent transfers.
- Operational Interruptions:
- A simple click on a malicious link can infect the corporate system with ransomware (a type of malware that “kidnaps” files and demands payment for their release), paralyzing essential operations.
- Reputation Damage:
- Social engineering incidents can erode client and partner trust, especially if sensitive data is exposed.
How Social Engineering Works in Practice
Imagine an employee receiving an email with the subject “URGENT: Mandatory Financial System Update.” The email appears legitimate but contains a link to a fake site. When clicked, the employee enters their credentials, granting the criminal access to the system.
Learn How to Protect Your Company Against Social Engineering
Although social engineering exploits human vulnerabilities, there are effective ways to protect your company. Here are the main measures:
- Employee Awareness and Training:
- Promote regular training sessions so employees can identify social engineering attempts. Important topics include:
- How to recognize phishing emails.
- The importance of verifying the identity of those requesting information.
- What to do when receiving suspicious messages.
💡 STWBRASIL Tip: We offer awareness programs that simulate social engineering attacks to train your team practically.
- Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
- Even if credentials are stolen, MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring an additional code sent to the user’s phone or email.
💡 Box Security by STWBRASIL: Includes MFA and other layers of protection to prevent unauthorized access to corporate systems.
- Strict Access Control:
- Restrict information access based on employee roles. For example:
- The HR department does not need access to the company’s financial data.
- Managers may have broader permissions, while entry-level employees have limited access.
💡 Box Security: Allows specific access permissions to be configured for each hierarchical level.
- Identity Verification for Sensitive Requests:
- Instruct employees always to verify sensitive requests. For example:
- Received an email requesting an urgent transfer? Confirm directly with the requester by phone or in person.
- A call from “IT” requesting software installation? Validate with the department manager.
- Use Security Tools:
- Protection must go beyond best practices. Technological solutions like Box Security and DLP (Data Loss Prevention) are essential to prevent access and data leaks.
💡 STWBRASIL Services: Include vulnerability audits, system analysis, and constant monitoring to prevent attacks.
- Incident Response Procedures:
- Even with preventive measures, incidents can occur. Have a response plan that includes:
- Identifying the Attack: Discover how it happened and which systems were compromised.
- Preserving Evidence: Use STWBRASIL’s Digital Forensics services to ensure the validity of evidence.
- Immediate Action: Disconnect compromised systems and change affected passwords.
Conclusion: Protect Your Company Against Social Engineering
Social engineering is a growing threat in the corporate environment but can be combated with awareness, best practices, and advanced technology. In addition to tools like Box Security and DLP, STWBRASIL offers personalized training and specialized services to protect your company against these threats.
