Video, Cybersecurity, Deepfakes, Phishing

Why Social Engineering Always Works: How Hackers Use Phishing & Deepfakes

Table of Contents

We’ve all done the training, so why are attackers still getting through?

Attackers no longer rely on bad spelling or suspicious links, they use AI-generated deepfakes and psychological profiling to manipulate people with astonishing precision.

By exploiting the brain’s emergency response system, they trigger fear, urgency, or authority to override logic and push instant action.

With free tools available on platforms like Hugging Face and GitHub, anyone can now create convincing video, voice and identity impersonations, and businesses are struggling to keep up.

This live session exposes how modern social engineers craft these attacks, from targeting new starters and leavers to exploiting emotional “dosages” like fear blended with legitimacy or pressure.

You’ll see how attackers study behaviour, social connections and timing to make their scams appear entirely authentic. Our experts will share real-world examples, practical advice, and early-warning cues to help your teams spot the signs before it’s too late.

What you’ll learn

  • Why trust is the #1 target in cyber attacks
  • The psychology behind social engineering and manipulation
  • How attackers use AI and deepfakes to deceive
  • Real-world phishing, LinkedIn, and deepfake attack examples
  • How to recognise emotional triggers like fear, urgency and curiosity
  • Lessons learned from real incidents involving brands like Coinbase, Marks & Spencer, Harrods, and the Co-op — and how their responses shaped best practices for detection and response

Practical steps to build a culture of verification and critical thinking Don’t just trust what you see, learn how to recognise when it’s fake.

𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐝 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐤𝐞? 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭.

Author: Jen Begue
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Author: Jen Begue
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