How does phishing differ from spear phishing?

Phishing and spear phishing are both forms of cyber attacks that aim to deceive individuals into providing personal or sensitive information, but they differ significantly in their approach and target scope.

The correct answer highlights that phishing generally targets a broad audience, meaning that attackers cast a wide net by sending out an abundance of fraudulent messages or links to multiple potential victims at once. The intention is to lure in anyone who might fall for the scam, often without any prior knowledge of the recipients.

In contrast, spear phishing is a more targeted attack. It involves tailored messages directed at specific individuals or organizations, often utilizing personal information about the target to increase the chances of success. This could include details such as the recipient's name, job title, or recent activities, which makes the message appear more legitimate and increases the likelihood of the victim falling for the tactic.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing the different levels of threat posed by these types of phishing attacks. Phishing's broad approach can affect anyone, while spear phishing strategies are designed to exploit specific vulnerabilities in individual targets.