The modern age has seen vulnerabilities extending beyond the physical realm. Reports suggest that online predators lurk in the shadows and now wield potent digital tools to exploit a vulnerability and steal valuable information. From individuals to businesses, everyone is a potential target. But how do these hackers operate? Here are five common tactics to be aware of:
Phishing attacks
Phishing is a classic tactic where hackers disguise themselves as trusted entities to steal sensitive information.Phishing attacks are commonly done over emails wherein users receive an urgent email from their bank, demanding immediate action. Panicked, the users click the suspicious link, leading them to a fake website that mimics the real one. Before they realise it, the login credentials are gone.
Malware distribution
Ever received and opened a seemingly harmless attachment or downloaded a free app? That could be a gateway to malware – malicious software that infects users’ devices and steals data like personal information, photos and even chats. Malware can spy on the keystrokes and encrypt files.
Public Wi-Fi peril
We all crave the convenience of free Wi-Fi but connecting to unsecured networks in public places can be very dangerous. It is like leaving your laptop unattended. Hackers can easily intercept users’ data traffic, steal passwords and financial information.
Social engineering hacks
Not all hacks involve technology, which means it’s the victim who helps a hacker in stealing information or has financial gain. Social engineering tactics involve manipulation of human trust to gain access to information or systems. A hacker might pose as a customer service representative to trick you into revealing personal details or click on a malicious link. This may lead to you losing your hard earned money.
Outdated armour
One of the common ways to be attacked by hackers boils down to weak digital security infrastructure. India has seen some cases of hacking, such as ransomware attack on AIIMS where the medical institution wore a rusted armour. Using outdated software and operating systems are prone to vulnerabilities that hackers exploit to gain access to these systems.
How to stay safe
Staying vigilant and informed about these common hacking tactics is the only way to keep yourself safe to the highest degree and significantly reduce the risk of falling victim. A little caution goes a long way in protecting valuable information and digital assets.
Phishing attacks
Phishing is a classic tactic where hackers disguise themselves as trusted entities to steal sensitive information.Phishing attacks are commonly done over emails wherein users receive an urgent email from their bank, demanding immediate action. Panicked, the users click the suspicious link, leading them to a fake website that mimics the real one. Before they realise it, the login credentials are gone.
Malware distribution
Ever received and opened a seemingly harmless attachment or downloaded a free app? That could be a gateway to malware – malicious software that infects users’ devices and steals data like personal information, photos and even chats. Malware can spy on the keystrokes and encrypt files.
Public Wi-Fi peril
We all crave the convenience of free Wi-Fi but connecting to unsecured networks in public places can be very dangerous. It is like leaving your laptop unattended. Hackers can easily intercept users’ data traffic, steal passwords and financial information.
Social engineering hacks
Not all hacks involve technology, which means it’s the victim who helps a hacker in stealing information or has financial gain. Social engineering tactics involve manipulation of human trust to gain access to information or systems. A hacker might pose as a customer service representative to trick you into revealing personal details or click on a malicious link. This may lead to you losing your hard earned money.
Outdated armour
One of the common ways to be attacked by hackers boils down to weak digital security infrastructure. India has seen some cases of hacking, such as ransomware attack on AIIMS where the medical institution wore a rusted armour. Using outdated software and operating systems are prone to vulnerabilities that hackers exploit to gain access to these systems.
How to stay safe
Staying vigilant and informed about these common hacking tactics is the only way to keep yourself safe to the highest degree and significantly reduce the risk of falling victim. A little caution goes a long way in protecting valuable information and digital assets.
- Be cautious about what you download and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Stick to using trusted networks and consider a VPN for added security when using public Wi-FI.
- Always verify the identity of anyone contacting you, even if they seem legitimate.
- Update software and devices regularly to patch vulnerabilities and stay secure.
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