Redirecting a Web link to a different address is classified as which type of cybersecurity threat?

Redirecting a web link to a different address falls under the category of spoofing. Spoofing involves disguising as something else to deceive users, typically to gain access to sensitive information or to redirect them to malicious sites. This technique can manifest in various forms, including website spoofing, where the URL directs users to a fraudulent site that mimics a legitimate one, thereby tricking them into sharing personal data.

The essence of spoofing lies in its ability to create a false sense of security or authenticity. For example, a user may believe they are clicking on a legitimate bank URL, but instead, they are redirected to a counterfeit site designed to capture their login credentials. This mechanism makes spoofing a significant concern in cybersecurity, as it exploits user trust to facilitate attacks.

In contrast, snooping generally involves unauthorized access to confidential information without altering any data. Sniffing refers to capturing data packets transmitted over a network, while phishing is a broader term that usually involves tricking individuals into providing sensitive information through deceptive emails or messages rather than through direct link manipulation. Each of these threats represents different tactics and objectives within the realm of cybersecurity, but redirecting a web link specifically aligns with the characteristics of spoofing.