ABSTRACT. Social engineering is a significant cybersecurity vulnerability that exploits human psychology to manipulate individuals into exposing confidential information. Unlike other forms of cyberattacks that target technological weaknesses, social engineering attacks leverage psychological aspects such as emotions, trust, and authority. These tactics often involve the use of “weapons of influence,” which include reciprocity, commitment, social proof, authority, liking, and scarcity. Social engineering can manifest in various forms, such as phishing, pretexting, baiting, and reverse social engineering, where attackers manipulate targets into reaching out to them for assistance. In 2024, statistics show that social engineering remains a prevalent threat, accounting for a significant portion of cybersecurity breaches globally. According to recent reports, nearly 70% of businesses have experienced at least one social engineering attack in the past year. High-profile examples of social engineering attacks include phishing emails disguised as official communications, pretexting to gather personal information under false pretenses, and baiting with enticing offers that lead to malware installation. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the trends in social engineering are expected to evolve, incorporating advanced techniques such as deep-fake technology and artificial intelligence to enhance their effectiveness. Attackers are leveraging these technologies to create more convincing scenarios, making it increasingly challenging for individuals and organizations to differentiate between legitimate and fraudulent communications. To combat these threats, it is crucial to implement comprehensive training programs focusing on the psychological aspects of social engineering, emphasizing the importance of skepticism and verification before divulging sensitive information. Organizations should also consider employing interactive methods such as short videos to illustrate real-world examples of social engineering attacks, enhancing employee awareness and engagement. By fostering a culture of vigilance and continuous learning, individuals and organizations can better protect themselves against the growing threat of social engineering, ensuring a more secure cyber landscape in the years to come.