What type of attack does impersonation refer to in cybersecurity?

Impersonation in cybersecurity primarily refers to when an attacker gains access to a system or information by pretending to be an authorized user. This is often accomplished through credential theft, where an attacker steals someone's login information—such as usernames and passwords—to gain unauthorized access. This tactic allows the impersonator to perform actions as though they were the legitimate user, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized transactions, or further exploitation of the system.

Understanding this concept is critical because it highlights the importance of securing personal credentials and using multifactor authentication to prevent unauthorized access. Effective cybersecurity practices must address impersonation risks to protect sensitive information and maintain system integrity.