The Hidden Cyber Threat: What is Social Engineering?
Imagine receiving an email from your university asking you to reset your password urgently. The email looks official, but the moment you click the link, hackers gain access to your personal data. This is social engineering in action!
Social engineering attacks manipulate human psychology to trick people into giving away sensitive information. Unlike traditional cyberattacks that rely on hacking systems, these attacks exploit human trust and behavior. Students, who spend most of their time online—whether for education, social media, or transactions—are among the most vulnerable targets.
Let’s explore how to identify phishing scams, recognize common online frauds, and protect yourself from becoming a victim of social engineering attacks.
Types of Social Engineering Attacks Targeting Students
1. Phishing Emails & Messages
Attackers send emails or messages pretending to be from trusted sources like universities, banks, or popular platforms (Google, Paytm, Netflix). These emails often contain urgent messages asking you to click a link or download an attachment.
🔹 How to avoid phishing scams?
✔️ Verify sender details before clicking on any link.
✔️ Look for grammar mistakes and unusual email addresses.
✔️ Never share personal details over email or SMS.
2. Fake Scholarship & Job Scams
Many students fall victim to fake job offers or scholarship scams promising financial aid in exchange for a small “registration fee” or personal information.
🔹 How to identify phishing emails and scams?
✔️ Cross-check offers on official university/job portals.
✔️ Never transfer money for job offers.
✔️ If a scholarship asks for bank details upfront, it’s likely a scam.
3. Tech Support & Fake Customer Service Calls
Fraudsters pose as IT support or bank representatives, claiming your account has been compromised. They will pressure you into sharing passwords or OTPs.
🔹 How to stay safe?
✔️ Banks and universities NEVER ask for passwords or OTPs over calls or emails.
✔️ Hang up and verify the details through official websites or contact numbers.
4. Social Media Impersonation & Hacking
Attackers clone student profiles on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn and trick friends into sharing personal data or sending money.
🔹 How to prevent social media scams?
✔️ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts.
✔️ Never click on suspicious links sent via DM.
✔️ Report and block impersonation profiles immediately.
How Cybersecurity Awareness Helps Students Stay Safe
With online frauds and cyberattacks rising in India, students must develop strong cyber awareness to protect their personal and academic data. Here’s how cybersecurity education at Shree LR Tiwari College can prepare you for a secure digital future:
B.Voc in Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics – Gain hands-on training in ethical hacking, malware analysis, and cyber law.
Cyber awareness training for students – Learn to identify phishing scams, secure digital payments, and prevent social engineering threats.
Real-world case studies – Understand how cybercriminals operate and how businesses prevent attacks.
Career opportunities in cybersecurity – With global companies investing heavily in cyber defense, demand for cybersecurity experts is skyrocketing.
Why Choose This Course?
- Industry-focused curriculum with practical training
- Placement assistance with top IT security firms
- A future-proof career in India’s fastest-growing tech sector