Hackers count on human behavior being predictable enough to manipulate.
So how do threat actors typically trick their victims? What are some easy risk factors to spot?
- Trust in authority. A fake email “from your boss” often works because people do not want to question authority.
- Curiosity: An unexpected link or attachment (e.g. “See attached invoice” or “Here’s your bonus”) can spark enough curiosity to override your typical caution.
- Convenience: Using simple or recycled passwords makes life easier – but it also makes hacking easier.
- Distraction: Attackers love sending phishing emails at busy times, knowing you might be rushing and less careful.
Just remember, hackers study patterns in behavior and exploit habits. If you normally click before thinking, or if you trust every request that looks urgent, you’re exactly the kind of “easy target” they seek out.
By understanding their mindset, you can flip the script – and make yourself much more difficult to victimize.
Here are 3 tips for breaking the cycle:
- Verify requests. A quick call or message to your boss or coworker can confirm that email is real.
- Use strong, unique passwords. If one account is hacked, it shouldn’t open the door to all the others.
- Stay skeptical of urgency. Hackers love fake emergencies. Real emergencies don’t ask you to wire money or share passwords.
Hackers don’t win because they’re always smarter. They win because they count on us being rushed, careless, or too trusting to see the warning signs.
