What is a common attack vector used by social engineering hackers? (Choose three)

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Prepare for the MTA Security Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification test!

Social engineering hackers often exploit human psychology to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that may compromise security. Among the options provided, the answer that includes the most prevalent attack vectors is focused on everyday interactions that can be targeted for deceptive purposes.

The telephone is frequently used in social engineering attacks, such as phishing calls where an attacker poses as a trusted entity to extract sensitive information. Waste management refers to the improper disposal of documents, which can lead to information exposure if sensitive data is not adequately destroyed, becoming a target for social engineering tactics like dumpster diving. Reverse social engineering involves a scenario where the attacker creates a situation that encourages a victim to seek assistance from them, thus allowing the hacker to gain the trust of the victim while controlling the narrative.

These elements indicate a clear understanding of how social engineering operates—through direct human interaction and the manipulation of trust. In contrast, honey pot systems and firewall interfaces primarily serve as defensive mechanisms against cyber attacks rather than being active components of social engineering tactics. They are more focused on preventing unauthorized access rather than being utilized by hackers as vectors for social engineering exploitation.