- 06th September, 2024
- By Riya
In a world where the click of a mouse can unleash both, chaos and creativity, where virtual fingerprints can lead to fortunes or felony, and where the battlegrounds of justice are pixels on a screen, cybercrime emerges as the modern-day Wild West. We must ensure that we are safe at all times and have taken all measures for our wellbeing in the online world. Each byte counts. So let's look at some of the most common cybercrimes and how we can protect ourselves from them.
- Phishing: Phishing refers to the fraudulent practice where criminals send deceptive emails, posing as legitimate businesses, with the aim of obtaining sensitive personal information. These emails often include links that redirect to websites controlled by scammers. It is crucial to exercise caution when sharing personal information online.
- Harassment: Harassment occurs when cyberstalkers use electronic means such as email, social media, or websites to continuously pursue and torment individuals. Online harassment can take various forms, including defamation, spreading false accusations, making threats, or engaging in behavior that humiliates or demeans someone. Perpetrators of cyberstalking can face severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines.
- Ransomware: Ransomware involves cybercriminals installing malicious software on a victim's system to effectively hold their important data hostage until their demands are met. In a typical ransomware attack, the victim's computer is either shut down or their files are encrypted. The attacker agrees to release the data only after receiving a ransom payment. Unfortunately, in many cases, the files are never recovered.
- PUPS: Potentially Unwanted Programs are less threatening than other cybercrimes, but are a type of malware. They uninstall necessary software in your system including search engines and pre-downloaded apps. They can include spyware or adware, so it’s a good idea to install an antivirus software to avoid the malicious download.
- Exploit kits: They usually need a vulnerability (bug in the code of a software) in order to gain control of a user’s computer. They are readymade tools criminals can buy online and use against anyone with a computer. The exploit kits are upgraded regularly similar to normal software and are available on dark web hacking forums.
- Child Pornography & Solicitation: The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has received over 10 million reports of suspected instances of child sexual exploitation in the past year alone. Perpetrators utilize the Internet to access sexually explicit images of children and, in some cases, even arrange in-person meetings.
- Intellectual Property Theft: Commonly known as piracy, the internet is rife with illegally obtained books, music, movies, and more, available for free download. Contrary to some beliefs, piracy is not a victimless crime. Not only do artists and creators suffer losses, but many illicit downloads also contain hidden malware capable of damaging your computer.
- Account Hacking: Safeguarding our passwords is of utmost importance. Imagine the harm someone could cause if they gained unauthorized access to your email account, which contains highly personal information. Unauthorized login to your email, social media, or computer can lead to potential legal consequences, including imprisonment.
- Drug Trafficking: The emergence of cryptocurrencies has significantly contributed to the surge in online drug trading over recent years. Illegal substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and heroin are readily accessible with just a few clicks. Research conducted by the Rand Corporation suggests that over 35% of global revenues from online drug trafficking originate in the United States.
- Credit Card Fraud: Spyware, a malicious software unknowingly installed on a victim's computer or handheld device, is responsible for half of all credit card fraud cases. Operating discreetly in the background, spyware collects personal data and transmits it to criminals who exploit the information to make fraudulent purchases using the victim's card.
As we can see, the threats are everywhere, thus it is important to understand how we can keep ourselves safe from these too. So here are 10 ways to safekeep yourself from cyberthreats and cybercrime.
- Embrace comprehensive internet security: Consider opting for a reliable security suite like Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, offering all-encompassing protection for your devices, online privacy, and identity. Safeguarding your private and financial information while navigating the online realm becomes effortless with such software.
- Fortify your passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across different websites and make a habit of regularly changing them. Craft robust passwords by incorporating a mix of at least 10 alphanumeric characters and symbols. Employing a password management application can assist in securely storing and managing your passwords.
- Stay updated with software patches: Prioritize updating your operating systems and internet security software regularly. Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in software to gain unauthorized access to your system. By patching these weaknesses and exploits, you decrease the likelihood of falling victim to cybercrime.
- Safeguard your social media privacy: Lock down your personal and private information on social media platforms. Cybercriminals adept in social engineering techniques can extract valuable data with just a few details. Minimize public sharing, such as revealing your pet's name or your mother's maiden name, as they may serve as answers to common security questions.
- Bolster your home network: Begin by fortifying your home network with a strong encryption password and consider utilizing a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN encrypts all data transmitted from your devices, safeguarding it until it reaches its intended destination. Even if cybercriminals manage to intercept your communication line, they will only encounter encrypted data. It's advisable to use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, whether in libraries, cafes, hotels, or airports.
- Educate your children about internet safety: Empower your children with knowledge about responsible internet usage without severing communication channels. Ensure they understand that they can approach you if they encounter online harassment, stalking, or bullying.
- Stay informed about significant security breaches: In the event that a merchant you deal with or a website you have an account on experiences a security breach, promptly ascertain the nature of the accessed information by hackers. Change your password immediately to mitigate potential risks.
- Take proactive steps against identity theft: Identity theft involves fraudulent acquisition of personal data for economic gain through means such as tricking individuals into divulging information online or stealing mail to access account details. To protect your personal data, exercise caution, and consider using a VPN to encrypt your online communications, especially when accessing the internet via public Wi-Fi.
- Remain vigilant against identity theft while traveling: Ensure you know how to safeguard your identity while on the move. Take precautions such as refraining from sharing travel plans on social media and utilizing a VPN when connecting to the internet through your hotel's Wi-Fi network.
- Be mindful of your children's safety: In addition to discussing internet safety with your children, it's crucial to protect them from identity theft. Children often become targets for identity theft due to their clean personal histories and credit records. Safeguard your child's personal information, and familiarize yourself with warning signs that may indicate compromised identity.
