Cyber Security
1. Hacking
What it is: Hacking is gaining unauthorized access to a computer system or network.1 Hackers can have various motivations, including stealing data, disrupting services, or simply proving their skills.How to prevent it:
Strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for each account. Consider a password manager to help.Software updates: Keep your operating system, browser, and other software up to date to patch security vulnerabilities.
Firewall: Use a firewall to block unauthorized access to your computer.4
Beware of suspicious links/attachments: Don't click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.
Secure Wi-Fi: Use strong encryption (WPA2 or WPA3) for your home Wi-Fi network.
2. Phishing
What it is: Phishing is a type of social engineering attack where criminals trick people into giving up personal information (like passwords or credit card numbers) by posing as a trustworthy entity.7 This often happens through emails, texts, or fake websites that mimic legitimate ones.8How to prevent it:
Verify the sender: Be wary of emails or texts from unknown senders. Double-check the sender's email address carefully.Don't click on suspicious links: Hover over links to see the actual destination before clicking.
Be cautious of urgent requests: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
3. Spam Email
What it is: Spam emails are unsolicited bulk emails, often used for advertising, spreading malware, or running phishing scams.How to prevent it:
Don't share your email address widely.Use a spam filter: Most email providers have built-in spam filters.
Mark spam as spam: This helps your email provider improve its spam filtering.
Be cautious of "unsubscribe" links: Sometimes these can be used to confirm your email address is active.
4. Spyware & Adware
What it is: Spyware: Secretly monitors your computer activity, such as websites you visit or keystrokes you type, and sends this information to a third party.Adware: Displays unwanted advertisements on your computer.
How to prevent it:
Install reputable antivirus/anti-malware software.Be cautious of free downloads: Some free software may bundle spyware or adware.18
Pay attention to software installation prompts: Read the terms and conditions carefully and decline any optional offers to install additional software.
5. Ransomware
What it is: Malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom for their release.How to prevent it:
Regular backups: Back up your important data regularly to an external drive or cloud storage.Antivirus/anti-malware software: Keep your security software up to date.
Be wary of suspicious links/attachments: Don't click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.