Definition ∞ A phishing tactic is a fraudulent attempt to acquire sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or private keys, by disguising as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. In the crypto space, this often involves fake websites, deceptive emails, or malicious links that mimic legitimate platforms or projects. The goal is to trick users into revealing their credentials or approving malicious transactions. It relies on social engineering to exploit human vulnerabilities.
Context ∞ News regularly highlights the prevalence of phishing tactics targeting cryptocurrency users, emphasizing the critical need for vigilance against these sophisticated scams. Security experts continually warn about new variations of phishing attacks, from fake wallet updates to fraudulent token airdrops. User education and the implementation of robust security practices, such as hardware wallets and multi-factor authentication, are crucial defenses.