From Mitnick to Modern Database Threats: Evolution of Social Engineering Tactics and Their Impact on Data Integrity

As technology continues to advance, database systems face growing threats from social engineering attacks that exploit human vulnerabilities. This work traces the evolution of social engineering methods, beginning with Kevin Mitnick’s pioneering strategies and progressing to the highly sophisticated, AI-driven tactics used today. By examining major incidents of social engineering in recent years, this research highlights the significant impact these tactics have on data integrity and database security. It also evaluates modern social engineering techniques, including spear-phishing, vishing, and baiting, reverse social engineering, water-holing, quid pro quo, tailgating, and assesses the effectiveness of current mitigation techniques. Despite advancements in security measures, attackers continue to refine their approaches, exposing gaps in existing defenses. This work also explores a detailed list of possible directions to strengthen the resilience against these threats. It highlights the need for integrated cyber and database security strategies that combines technical and human safeguards to overcome future incidents. Overall, the work provides a roadmap for strengthening defenses and ensuring long-term resilience against social engineering attacks.