Phishing works by deceiving individuals into providing personal information through fraudulent emails, websites, or messages that appear legitimate. Attackers often create a sense of urgency or fear to manipulate victims into acting quickly. To prevent phishing, measures include using anti-phishing software, educating users about recognizing suspicious communications, and implementing multi-factor authentication. Furthermore, regularly updating security systems can enhance defenses against evolving phishing tactics, safeguarding sensitive information and reducing the risk of compromise.