phishing

Another example of a form of cyber-attack currently being researched by FINS faculty involves Phishing, which steals sensitive information and targets hardware systems via viruses in deceptive messages (e.g., emails, phone texts). One of FINS’s research teams is working on a project where simulated Phishing emails and text messages are sent to study participants to determine their susceptibility to this form of deception. Results have shown that older (compared to younger) adults, particularly those with low positive affect and low cognitive function, are at risk for falling for Phishing attacks.  New knowledge generated from this project will inform defense solutions in reducing vulnerability to cyber-deception in adults of different ages; and will enhance the design of real-world experimental Phishing interventions for use in future research.