What is phishing in relation to identity theft?

Phishing is a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information and is a common tactic used by identity thieves. It typically involves deceptive practices, such as sending emails or creating fake websites that mimic legitimate ones. Victims are tricked into providing personal data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers, under the guise of a trustworthy source. This method exploits human psychology, making it an effective and widespread threat in the realm of identity theft. Understanding phishing is crucial for recognizing and preventing potential identity theft attacks, as it directly relates to how thieves manipulate individuals to gain unauthorized access to their information.