Primary definition
An attempt to trick someone into revealing information (e.g., a password) that can be used to attack systems or networks. Source: NIST SP 800-61 Rev 2
Also known ashuman hacking · psychological manipulation · phishing · pretexting · baiting · tailgating · impersonation
6 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
— Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015View source
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CNSSGC
An attempt to trick someone into revealing information (e.g., a password) that can be used to attack systems or networks. Source: NIST SP 800-61 Rev 2
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015 · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Social Engineering. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/social-engineering
Sources
6 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026
01
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
High consensus
02
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook
Multi-source
03
March 2020 CSC Report
March 2020 CSC Report
Multi-source
04
EAC Information Technology Terminology
EAC Information Technology Terminology
Multi-source
05
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Multi-source
06
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Multi-source
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