This is Part 2 of a three-part series. Read Part 1 first if you haven't already.
Part 2: Advanced Pretext Development
Building Your Persona
A convincing persona is the foundation of any successful pretext. Your persona needs to be believable, relatable, and appropriate for the target environment. Consider these elements:
- Background Story: Where does your character work? What's their history?
- Motivation: Why is your character contacting the target?
- Knowledge Level: What would your character know (and not know)?
- Communication Style: How would your character speak and write?
Research and Intelligence Gathering
Before executing any pretext, thorough reconnaissance is essential:
- OSINT: Use open-source intelligence to learn about the target organization
- Social Media: Study employee profiles, company culture, and recent events
- Corporate Structure: Understand the hierarchy and key personnel
- Technical Environment: Identify systems, vendors, and processes in use
Crafting the Narrative
Your pretext narrative should:
- Be simple enough to explain quickly
- Create urgency without raising suspicion
- Provide a clear reason for the target to help
- Include details that add authenticity
- Have answers prepared for likely questions
Communication Channels
Different channels require different approaches:
- Phone: More personal, allows real-time adaptation
- Email: Allows careful crafting, leaves evidence trail
- In-Person: Most convincing but highest risk
- Text/Chat: Casual, good for quick requests
Handling Objections
Prepare for common objections and have responses ready. The key is to remain calm, confident, and helpful. Never become aggressive or defensive—this breaks the illusion.
Continue to Part 3 for execution strategies and real-world examples.