Machine Learning and Neural Networks for Phishing Detection: A Systematic Review (2017–2024)

Jacek Lukasz Wilk-Jakubowski, Lukasz Pawlik, Grzegorz Wilk-Jakubowski, Aleksandra Sikora

Phishing remains a persistent and evolving cyber threat, constantly adapting its tactics to bypass traditional security measures. The advent of Machine Learning (ML) and Neural Networks (NN) has significantly enhanced the capabilities of automated phishing detection systems. This comprehensive review systematically examines the landscape of ML- and NN-based approaches for identifying and mitigating phishing attacks. Our analysis, based on a rigorous search methodology, focuses on articles published between 2017 and 2024 across relevant subject areas in computer science and mathematics. We categorize existing research by phishing delivery channels, including websites, electronic mail, social networking, and malware. Furthermore, we delve into the specific machine learning models and techniques employed, such as various algorithms, classification and ensemble methods, neural network architectures (including deep learning), and feature engineering strategies. This review provides insights into the prevailing research trends, identifies key challenges, and highlights promising future directions in the application of machine learning and neural networks for robust phishing detection.