What Is Social Engineering?

Social Engineering is a core cybersecurity threat or attack technique that every cybersecurity and GRC professional should understand.

What Is Social Engineering?

Social Engineering refers to the practices, processes, or technologies related to social engineering within the context of information security and risk management. Understanding social engineering helps organizations protect their systems, data, and operations from relevant threats.

How It Works

Social Engineering is applied through a combination of policies, technical controls, and organizational procedures. Security teams implement social engineering as part of a broader security program aligned to industry frameworks and regulatory requirements.

Why It Matters

Organizations that correctly implement social engineering reduce their exposure to cyber risk, improve regulatory compliance, and strengthen their overall security posture.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand what social engineering is and how it applies to your organization’s security program.
  • Align social engineering practices to a recognized framework such as NIST CSF, ISO 27001, or CIS Controls.
  • Regularly review and test controls related to social engineering to ensure they remain effective as threats evolve.