What type of phishing attack is conducted over the phone?

The correct answer is C, as vishing refers specifically to phishing attacks that are carried out via voice communication over the phone. In a vishing attack, the attacker often impersonates a legitimate entity, such as a bank or a service provider, to deceive the victim into revealing sensitive information, such as personal identification numbers or account details. The use of voice makes this type of phishing unique as it relies on verbal communication, which can create a sense of urgency or personal connection that might facilitate the attack.

Understanding vishing is crucial because it highlights the wide range of methods attackers can use to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information. Other forms of phishing, such as SMiShing (which occurs via text messages) and traditional phishing (typically done through email), do not involve direct voice communication, emphasizing the different strategies employed by cybercriminals in various contexts.