Hacking, Phishing & Cyber Bullying | Identity Theft, Smishing & Vishing | Complete Notes | CBSE Class 12 Informatics Practices (2026–27)
Class 12 · Informatics Practices
Hacking, Phishing, Cyber Bullying & Online Scams
As Internet usage continues to grow, cyber threats have become more common. Cybercriminals use various techniques to steal information, misuse personal data, commit financial fraud, or harm individuals and organizations. Understanding these threats and adopting safe online practices can significantly reduce cyber risks.
What is Hacking?
Hacking is the process of identifying and exploiting weaknesses in a computer system, network, or software to gain access. Hacking may be authorized for security testing or unauthorized for illegal purposes.
Ethical Hacking
Ethical Hacking is the authorized practice of testing computer systems and networks to identify security vulnerabilities so that they can be fixed before malicious attackers exploit them.
Purpose
- Improve cybersecurity.
- Identify system vulnerabilities.
- Protect sensitive information.
- Strengthen organizational security.
Cracking
Cracking refers to unauthorized access to computer systems or software with malicious intent, such as stealing information, damaging systems, or bypassing software protection.
Unlike ethical hacking, cracking is illegal and punishable under cyber laws.
Ethical Hacking vs Cracking
| Ethical Hacking | Cracking |
|---|---|
| Authorized activity. | Unauthorized activity. |
| Improves security. | Causes harm or illegal access. |
| Performed with permission. | Performed without permission. |
| Legal. | Illegal. |
What is Phishing?
Phishing is a cyber attack in which criminals attempt to trick users into revealing confidential information such as passwords, banking details, or OTPs by pretending to be a trusted organization.
Common Methods
- Fake emails.
- Fake banking websites.
- Fraudulent login pages.
- Malicious links.
Smishing
Smishing (SMS Phishing) is a phishing attack carried out through fraudulent SMS or text messages. Attackers often send fake messages claiming prizes, bank alerts, or account verification requests to trick users into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information.
Vishing
Vishing (Voice Phishing) is a phishing attack conducted through voice calls. Attackers pretend to be bank officials, government representatives, or customer support executives to obtain confidential information.
Identity Theft
Identity Theft is the unauthorized use of another person's personal information, such as name, Aadhaar number, bank account details, passwords, or credit card information, for fraudulent purposes.
Examples
- Opening bank accounts using stolen identity.
- Making online purchases using someone else's card details.
- Creating fake social media accounts.
Cyber Bullying
Cyber Bullying is the use of digital platforms such as social media, messaging applications, gaming platforms, or emails to harass, threaten, embarrass, or intimidate another person.
Examples
- Posting insulting comments.
- Sharing private photographs without permission.
- Sending threatening messages.
- Spreading false rumours online.
- Creating fake profiles.
Online Scams
Online scams are fraudulent activities carried out through the Internet to deceive people into revealing personal information or transferring money.
Examples
- Lottery scams.
- Fake shopping websites.
- Investment fraud.
- Job offer scams.
- Fake technical support calls.
Prevention Measures
| Threat | Prevention |
|---|---|
| Hacking | Use strong passwords and update software regularly. |
| Phishing | Verify website URLs before entering credentials. |
| Smishing | Do not click links in suspicious SMS messages. |
| Vishing | Never share OTPs or banking information over phone calls. |
| Identity Theft | Protect personal documents and sensitive information. |
| Cyber Bullying | Block offenders and report abusive behaviour. |
| Online Scams | Purchase only from trusted websites and verify offers. |
Phishing vs Smishing vs Vishing
| Attack Type | Medium Used | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing | Email or fake website | Fake bank login page |
| Smishing | SMS/Text Message | "Your bank account is blocked. Click here." |
| Vishing | Voice Call | Fake customer care executive asking for OTP |
Real-Life Examples
| Situation | Threat |
|---|---|
| Receiving a fake bank email requesting login credentials. | Phishing |
| Receiving an SMS with a suspicious payment link. | Smishing |
| A caller pretending to be from the bank asks for your OTP. | Vishing |
| Someone creates a fake social media profile using your photograph. | Identity Theft |
| A student receives repeated threatening messages online. | Cyber Bullying |
Common Errors
| Mistake | Correct Concept |
|---|---|
| Ethical hacking and cracking are the same. | Ethical hacking is authorized and legal; cracking is unauthorized and illegal. |
| Phishing occurs only through emails. | Phishing can occur through fake websites, messages, or other online channels. |
| Banks ask customers to share OTPs. | Legitimate banks never ask for OTPs, passwords, or PINs over calls or messages. |
| Cyber bullying is only a minor issue. | Cyber bullying can have serious emotional, psychological, and legal consequences. |
Quick Revision
| Concept | Remember |
|---|---|
| Hacking | Finding and exploiting system vulnerabilities |
| Ethical Hacking | Authorized security testing |
| Cracking | Illegal unauthorized access |
| Phishing | Fraud through fake emails or websites |
| Smishing | Phishing using SMS |
| Vishing | Phishing using voice calls |
| Identity Theft | Misuse of personal information |
| Cyber Bullying | Harassment using digital platforms |
CBSE Exam Tips
- Differentiate clearly between Hacking, Ethical Hacking, and Cracking.
- Remember the communication medium used in Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing.
- Never share passwords, OTPs, or banking credentials through calls, emails, or messages.
- Identity theft involves unauthorized use of another person's personal information.
- Cyber bullying is a punishable offence and should be reported promptly.
Summary
Cyber threats such as hacking, phishing, identity theft, cyber bullying, and online scams affect individuals and organizations worldwide. Understanding these threats, recognizing their warning signs, and following safe online practices can help protect personal information and digital assets. Ethical hacking strengthens cybersecurity by identifying vulnerabilities with authorization, whereas cracking and other cyber attacks are illegal. Responsible digital behaviour and awareness are essential for maintaining a secure online environment.