pretexting

Pretexting is a method used in social engineering by which attackers try to obtain confidential information.

In the method of pretexting, the attacker relies on credible stories or lies to obtain the victim's personal data and identification numbers. For example, an attacker may claim that he needs the bank details to make a wire transfer to the victim. A credible story can build trust with the victim and lower the threshold for sharing confidential information.