An attempt to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details (and sometimes, indirectly, money) by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication

All India Bar Examination (AIBE) 15-XV Previous Year Question Papers with Answers

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29.

An attempt to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details (and sometimes, indirectly, money) by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication – is known as

A: Pharming

B: Smishing

C: Phishing

D: Didling

The answer is: C

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Explanation

The correct option is C: Phishing.

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack that uses spoofed emails or websites to trick users into revealing their personal or financial information. Phishing emails often appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, online services, or government agencies, and ask the user to click on a link, open an attachment, or provide some sensitive data. Phishing websites are fake replicas of real websites that try to mimic their appearance and functionality, and ask the user to enter their login credentials, credit card details, or other information.

Some of the other options are related to phishing, but have different characteristics. Pharming is a technique that redirects users to a fake website by tampering with the DNS (Domain Name System) server or the user's computer. Smishing is a form of phishing that uses SMS (Short Message Service) or text messages instead of emails. Didling is not a common term, but it could refer to a type of fraud that involves altering or falsifying documents or records.

To protect yourself from phishing and related attacks, you should always be careful about opening unsolicited emails or messages, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments. You should also check the URL of the website you are visiting, and look for signs of security, such as a padlock icon or a green address bar. You should also use antivirus software and update it regularly, and never share your personal or financial information with anyone online unless you are sure of their identity and legitimacy.