Abstract: Technological progress has bridged the gap between humans and machines. However, this rapid advancement has brought new challenges due to the rising wave of cyberattacks in various industries. In the context of security, human susceptibility often becomes the weak link. Social engineering attacks (SEAs) are the weapon of choice focusing on individuals and exploiting their vulnerabilities instead of computer systems or software. Social engineers employ a crafty blend of coercion, trickery, and manipulation to achieve their aims. SEAs, such as Wailing, Baiting, Phishing, Vishing, Spear Phishing, Pretexting, Smishing, and more, have gained notoriety. As the smart industry and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) continue to flourish, SEAs cast their shadows on businesses and industries on a grand scale. The actual attacker's primary goal is to meticulously research and gather information about their target, often through social networks. Data security is a paramount concern for industries, particularly in the data-rich environments of IIoT and smart industries like healthcare, wearables, smart homes, and water utilities. Vulnerabilities in industrial communication systems are numerous. This study delves into the world of SEAs, exploring their introduction, their pivotal role in the intelligence industry and IIoT, their extensive impacts, the critical methods for prevention and detection, and real-world examples. This study offers researchers, students, cybersecurity professionals, and other key stakeholder valuable insights.