What is a key characteristic of phishing attacks?

Phishing attacks are primarily characterized by their intent to steal sensitive information, which can include personal data such as usernames, passwords, credit card details, and social security numbers. This malicious strategy often employs deceptive emails or websites that appear legitimate, tricking users into divulging their private information. By focusing on the psychology of the user rather than requiring direct unauthorized access to systems, phishing attacks can be highly effective and widespread.

Other options, while related to security threats, do not accurately portray the nature of phishing. For example, the assertion that phishing originates solely from secure websites overlooks the fact that phishing can occur through a variety of means, often utilizing unsecured or fraudulent sites masquerading as trusted entities. Additionally, while some phishing techniques may involve manual processes, many are automated and can affect numerous users simultaneously, making the claim of manual execution misleading. Lastly, the idea of physical theft pertains to entirely different forms of cybercrime and is not relevant to phishing, which operates in the realm of digital deception rather than through physical means.