What is Cyber Security?
Cybersecurity is a way to protect our data from malware and cyber-attacks. The aim of Cybersecurity is to reduce the maximum damage from cyber-attacks and protect against the unauthorized exploitation of systems, networks, and technologies.
Here are some examples of common cyber-attacks and data breaches:
- Identity theft
- Malware, phishing, spamming, spoofing, spyware, trojans, and viruses
- Password breaches
- Intellectual property (IP) theft or unauthorized access
Just a few hours ago, Air India's 4.5 million passengers data was leaked. This data includes - name, DOB, contact info, passport info, ticket info, etc. This just goes to shows how vulnerable these companies are from cyber-attacks. These attacks have become so common, that we can’t go a week without some breach or ransom attack hitting the news cycles.
How to stay safe?
To safe from these cyber-attacks, we can take these following measures -
1. Email Phishing
One of the most common ways cybercriminals get access to your data is through your E-mails. They’ll send fraudulent emails impersonating someone and would ask to click on a link or pdf. These Links often seem legitimate to an untrained eye and it’s easy to fall into the trap.
- Check email addresses from the received email
- Never click on links from an unknown person
2. Updating software and systems
Many cyber experts have pointed out that people using an older version of the software are most easy victims. Often cyber-attacks happen because your systems or software aren’t fully up to date, leaving weaknesses. Hackers exploit these weaknesses so cybercriminals exploit these weaknesses to gain access to your network.
- Always update your software and systems
3. Weak Passwords
When you use weak passwords, you make it easier and faster for hackers to succeed. This is a risk to both user accounts and administrative accounts. Some examples of weak passwords are -
- Password which contains a string of numbers like 123456
- Most of the people have their name in the password which becomes easier for hackers to unlock.
- Keeping the same password in all their accounts
- Sharing passwords with unknown person claiming themselves as company executives.
Passwords should be of 8- digits and must contain numeric and alphabets (both capital and small)
4. Webcam Hack
During Pandemic use of webcam have become common which makes it vulnerable to hacking. To protect yourself follow these instructions:-
- If your cam is a USB connected to a desktop, you can always unplug when not in use.
- In Laptop, Taping webcam when not using.
- Most webcams should fire up a visible light to let you know when the camera is working.
- In Windows when the microphone is turned on you can observe a mic icon.
5. Installing Pirated/Cracked Apps
Purchasing software can be expensive. When you need a new piece of software for your PC, you can either look for free options or payout for potentially pricey software. Some people are tempted to avoid these costs by downloading cracked or illegal software. But, Installing them can lead to the following troubles:-
- Malware Infections
- Infecting Other Devices on Your Network
- Affecting the processing power of the computer, thus slowing down computer
Therefore, Don't risk your computer for software. There is always Free and Open-Source Software.
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