What is Whale Phishing?

Whale phishing is a type of phishing attack that targets high-level executives or other influential individuals within an organization. These attacks are called “whale phishing” because the attackers are targeting individuals who are considered “big fish” within the organization.

Whale phishing attacks are typically more sophisticated and targeted than traditional phishing attacks, and may involve extensive research and social engineering to gather information about the targeted individual and their organization. The attackers may use this information to create personalized and convincing phishing emails or other types of social engineering attacks that are designed to trick the targeted individual into giving away sensitive information or taking some other action that benefits the attackers.

Some common tactics used in whale phishing attacks include:

  • Impersonating a high-level executive or other trusted individual: The attackers may send emails or make phone calls pretending to be someone the targeted individual knows and trusts, such as their boss or a colleague.
  • Using personalized and convincing subject lines and email content: The attackers may use information they have gathered about the targeted individual and their organization to create emails that are more likely to be believed.
  • Requesting sensitive information or asking the targeted individual to take some specific action: The attackers may ask the targeted individual to provide sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial information, or to take some action that benefits the attackers, such as making a wire transfer or approving a purchase.

Overall, whale phishing is a serious threat that can result in significant financial losses or other damage to an organization. It is important for individuals and organizations to be aware of this threat and to take steps to protect against it.