MITRE ATT&CK / Techniques / T1566.004

Phishing: Spearphishing Voice

ID
T1566.004
Tactics
TA0001 Initial Access
Sub-technique of
T1566 Phishing
Platforms
Linux, macOS, Windows, Identity Provider
Data sources
Application Log Content
Source
attack.mitre.org
MITRE last modified
12 May 2026

Adversaries may use voice communications to ultimately gain access to victim systems. Spearphishing voice is a specific variant of spearphishing. It is different from other forms of spearphishing in that it employs the use of manipulating a user into providing access to systems through a phone call or other forms of voice communications. Spearphishing frequently involves social engineering techniques, such as posing as a trusted source (ex: Impersonation) and/or creating a sense of urgency or alarm for the recipient.

All forms of phishing are electronically delivered social engineering. In this scenario, adversaries are not directly sending malware to a victim vice relying on User Execution for delivery and execution. For example, victims may receive phishing messages that instruct them to call a phone number where they are directed to visit a malicious URL, download malware,[2][3] or install adversary-accessible remote management tools (Remote Access Tools) onto their computer.[4]

Adversaries may also combine voice phishing with Multi-Factor Authentication Request Generation in order to trick users into divulging MFA credentials or accepting authentication prompts.[5]

Detection

Mitigations (1)

M1017 User Training

Users can be trained to identify and report social engineering techniques and spearphishing attempts, while also being suspicious of and verifying the identify of callers.[1]

Groups (1)

References

  1. CISA Phishing
  2. sygnia Luna Month
  3. CISA Remote Monitoring and Management Software
  4. Unit42 Luna Moth
  5. Proofpoint Vishing