Curiosity-Based Phishing Examples: Tricks That Spark Your Interest

Phishing remains the top cybersecurity threat, accounting for 36% of data breaches, according to the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report. One of the most effective tactics cybercriminals use is curiosity-based phishing, where they exploit human nature to trick victims into clicking malicious links.

But why does this tactic work so well? Hackers understand that humans have an innate desire to know more, especially about unexpected or intriguing topics.

Curiosity is a powerful emotion, and cybercriminals exploit it to trick individuals into falling for phishing scams. Curiosity-based phishing uses intriguing subject lines, fake news, or mysterious messages to lure victims into clicking malicious links or downloading harmful attachments. Understanding these phishing examples is essential for improving cybersecurity awareness and reducing employee-driven risks.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• Common curiosity-based phishing examples
• Psychological triggers hackers exploit
• How to prevent curiosity-driven cyber attacks

What is Curiosity-Based Phishing?

Curiosity-based phishing manipulates the natural human tendency to seek information. Attackers design emails, messages, or pop-ups that spark intrigue, tempting users to engage without considering the risks. These phishing tactics rely on an individual’s impulse to uncover hidden or exclusive content.

Common Characteristics of Curiosity-Based Phishing Emails

• Attention-grabbing subject lines (e.g., “You won’t believe this…”)
• Fake security alerts urging users to check their accounts
• Unexpected news or scandalous headlines
• Phony job offers or financial opportunities
• Suspicious links promising exclusive content

5 Common Curiosity-Based Phishing Examples

1. Shocking News Scams

Attackers craft emails or messages claiming breaking news, celebrity scandals, or confidential information to bait users into clicking malicious links.

• Example: An email titled “Exclusive: Leaked Celebrity Photos” leads to a phishing website requesting login credentials.
• Prevention: Verify news sources before clicking on sensationalist headlines.

2. Fake Security Alerts

Phishers send fraudulent messages claiming unauthorized activity on an account, pressuring users to log in and review suspicious actions.

• Example: A fake Google notification states, “Unusual login detected. Click here to secure your account.”
• Prevention: Always verify security alerts by logging into accounts directly through official websites.

3. Unexpected Prize or Giveaway Scams

Cybercriminals exploit curiosity by sending messages about fake contests, winnings, or gifts to trick users into providing sensitive details.

• Example: An email claims, “You’ve won a free iPhone! Click to claim your prize.”
• Prevention: Never enter personal information in unexpected giveaway messages. Confirm legitimacy on the official website.

4. Suspicious Job Offers

Fraudsters impersonate recruiters, offering fake job opportunities to lure job seekers into revealing personal or financial information.

• Example: A job posting claims, “Work from home and earn $5,000 weekly! Apply now.”
• Prevention: Verify recruiter credentials and avoid sharing personal details with unverified sources.

5. Scam Software or Document Downloads

Emails disguised as software updates or urgent document requests trick users into downloading malware-infected files.

• Example: An email claims, “Important contract attached – please review immediately.”
• Prevention: Never download unexpected attachments. Confirm requests through official communication channels.

The Psychology Behind Curiosity-Based Phishing

Curiosity-based phishing exploits psychological triggers like FOMO (fear of missing out), urgency, and social proof. Scammers design their tactics to appear credible and irresistible, leading users to engage without critical thinking.

Best Practices to Prevent Curiosity-Based Phishing

1. Think Before Clicking: If an email or message sounds too good (or shocking) to be true, it likely is.
2. Verify the Source: Check the legitimacy of messages by visiting official websites instead of clicking on links.
3. Avoid Downloading Unknown Attachments: Only download files from trusted sources.
4. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Strengthen account security to prevent unauthorized access.
5. Use Security Awareness Training: Regular security awareness training and phishing simulations help employees recognize phishing scams.

Access free training: Free Phishing Training for Employees.

How Keepnet Helps Prevent Curiosity-Based Phishing Attacks

Keepnet Human Risk Management helps prevent curiosity-based phishing attacks, through AI-powered phishing simulations and behavior-based security awareness training. It also explains how Keepnet can be used to track user behavior and analyze phishing emails in order to identify and respond to threats.

AI-Powered Phishing Simulations

Keepnet provides simulations mimicking curiosity-driven phishing scams, enabling employees to recognize and resist deceptive tactics. Learn more: Phishing Simulation Software.

Behavior-Based Security Awareness Training

Interactive training programs educate employees on curiosity-based phishing and incorporate The Nudge Theory for Security Awareness to enhance decision-making.

Phishing Risk Analysis & User Behavior Tracking

Keepnet’s system evaluates employee interactions with simulated phishing attempts, tracking behaviors to identify high-risk individuals and improving targeted training.

Incident Response & Phishing Email Analysis

If an employee reports a phishing attempt, Keepnet’s Incident Responder analyzes the threat and provides actionable insights for security teams.

Empowering Your Defense Against Curiosity-Driven Cyber Attacks

Curiosity-based phishing scams exploit users’ desire for exclusive information, shocking news, or unexpected rewards. Recognizing these tactics and implementing strong security measures can prevent falling victim to such attacks. Organizations should adopt phishing simulations, behavior-based training, and AI-powered detection tools to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

For more insights into phishing techniques, check out: Fear-Based Phishing Examples: Scams That Exploit Anxiety and Panic

Stay cautious and enhance your organization’s security by staying informed on phishing tactics driven by curiosity.