Which phishing activity targets a high-profile executive to obtain information?

Which phishing activity targets a high-profile executive to obtain information?

• A. Tailgating
• B. Shoulder Surfing
• C. Whaling
• D. Spear fishing

Answer: (C)

Whaling is a targeted phishing attack aimed at high-profile executives to obtain sensitive information or access. It uses carefully crafted messages that impersonate a trusted person or authority, designed to look legitimate and urgent so the executive releases credentials, initiates a transfer, or shares confidential data. The focus on top-level targets is what sets it apart from other phishing efforts. Tailgating and shoulder surfing are physical security tactics, not phishing, and spear phishing is a broader term for targeted phishing; whaling is the specialized form aimed specifically at high-status individuals.

Whaling is a targeted phishing attack aimed at high-profile executives to obtain sensitive information or access. It uses carefully crafted messages that impersonate a trusted person or authority, designed to look legitimate and urgent so the executive releases credentials, initiates a transfer, or shares confidential data. The focus on top-level targets is what sets it apart from other phishing efforts. Tailgating and shoulder surfing are physical security tactics, not phishing, and spear phishing is a broader term for targeted phishing; whaling is the specialized form aimed specifically at high-status individuals.