Which of the following is NOT a method of social engineering?

A denial-of-service (DoS) attack is a method used to disrupt the normal functioning of a targeted server, service, or network by overwhelming it with a flood of traffic. This type of attack does not involve manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information, which is the essence of social engineering.

In contrast, phishing, eavesdropping, and spear phishing all involve social engineering tactics. Phishing typically refers to the act of sending fraudulent communications, often via email, that appear to come from reputable sources in an attempt to steal sensitive information. Eavesdropping involves secretly listening to private conversations or communications, enabling the attacker to gather confidential information. Spear phishing is a more targeted form of phishing where the attacker tailors their attack to a specific individual or organization, aiming for a higher chance of success by using personal information to appear legitimate.

Thus, while phishing and its variants rely on exploiting human psychology and behavior, a DoS attack purely targets system resources, making it distinct from social engineering methods.