Which term describes using someone's computer account to target them with malicious messages?

The term that describes using someone's computer account to target them with malicious messages is Cyberbullying by Proxy. This term specifically refers to the act of using someone's online identity or account to engage in bullying or harassment against them or others, often without their knowledge or consent. This can involve someone gaining access to another person's computer account, often through methods like hacking or exploiting weak passwords, and then using that account to send harmful messages or spread negativity.

In contrast, identity theft refers to the unauthorized use of someone's personal information to commit fraud, which doesn't necessarily involve harassment. Social engineering involves manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information for fraudulent purposes, but it does not inherently involve the direct bullying aspect. Phishing, while it involves tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information, is primarily focused on obtaining confidential data rather than using accounts to directly harass someone.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the nuances of online behaviors and the implications of various cybersecurity threats.