During a penetration test, you are attempting to gain physical access to a secured building. While observing employees, you decide to impersonate an IT support technician to gain trust and entry without arousing suspicion. Which method of influence is primarily being utilized in this scenario?
Impersonation as an IT support technician uses the method of influence known as Authority. People tend to obey authority figures or individuals who appear to be in a position of power or have a legitimate role. By appearing as an IT support technician, the pen tester leverages the inherent trust that employees might place in their technical support staff. Other options did not fit as well because Scarcity usually involves creating a sense of urgency about a limited resource, Social proof involves convincing people to comply because others are doing so, and Likeness relies on using commonalities to build rapport.
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