TL;DR: Whaling is a highly targeted phishing attack aimed specifically at senior executives, using personalized, well-researched messages to steal credentials or trigger fraudulent transactions. Verify unusual or urgent requests through a separate channel, limit how much personal and organizational detail is publicly available, and require multi-person approval for large transfers.
👉 Check my digital footprint — free 30-second check →
Whaling is a highly targeted phishing attack aimed specifically at senior executives, using personalized, well-researched messages to steal credentials or trigger fraudulent transactions.
How Whaling Attacks Works
Attackers research a specific executive using public information (LinkedIn, press releases, company filings) to craft a convincing, personalized email — often impersonating a board member, lawyer, or regulator — requesting an urgent wire transfer or sensitive data.
Warning Signs to Watch For
An unusually personalized email referencing real details, urgency around a confidential or time-sensitive matter, and a request that bypasses normal approval processes.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify unusual or urgent requests through a separate channel, limit how much personal and organizational detail is publicly available, and require multi-person approval for large transfers.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading What Is Wire Fraud? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see What Is Account Takeover Fraud? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Whaling Attacks?
Whaling is a highly targeted phishing attack aimed specifically at senior executives, using personalized, well-researched messages to steal credentials or trigger fraudulent transactions.
How does Whaling Attacks typically work?
Attackers research a specific executive using public information (LinkedIn, press releases, company filings) to craft a convincing, personalized email — often impersonating a board member, lawyer, or regulator — requesting an urgent wire transfer or sensitive data.
What are the warning signs of Whaling Attacks?
An unusually personalized email referencing real details, urgency around a confidential or time-sensitive matter, and a request that bypasses normal approval processes.
How can I protect myself from Whaling Attacks?
Verify unusual or urgent requests through a separate channel, limit how much personal and organizational detail is publicly available, and require multi-person approval for large transfers.
What should I do if I think I’ve encountered Whaling Attacks?
Stop responding immediately, do not click any links or share information, and report it to the appropriate authority. If money or personal information was already shared, act quickly to secure your accounts and report the incident.