Define "phishing."

Phishing is best defined as a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details, by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in digital communications. Typically, phishing occurs through email, social media, or instant messaging, where the attacker creates a sense of urgency or conveys a false sense of security to deceive individuals into providing confidential information.

In contrast to a legitimate means of retrieving credentials, phishing is rooted in deception and is designed to exploit human vulnerabilities rather than employing proper security measures. While it may involve various forms of technology, it is primarily a social engineering tactic rather than a method for virus propagation or a networking technique. Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing and safeguarding against potential threats in online interactions.