Hacking is a term used to describe breaking into computer systems, networks, or software.
In recent years, hacking has become an increasingly common criminal activity, and it’s not just for tech-savvy people; anyone can break into your system if they know what they’re doing.
Here are some scary facts about hacking:
Hackers Hide Viruses In URLs
Hackers often hide viruses in attachments or URLs to emails purporting to be from recognisable companies.
These are difficult to detect because hackers carefully research their targets’ details before launching an attack.
When exploiting a virus, hackers can turn your computer into a ‘slave’ that will do their bidding for them.
They will generally try to infect large numbers of computers within organisations to achieve this goal.
To avoid falling victim to these kinds of attacks, you should run anti-virus software and check any email attachments carefully before opening them. Never click on links in unsolicited emails, especially if you weren’t expecting one from the sender!
Remember other online threats, too, such as ransomware.
You Can Be Hacked Remotely
Hackers don’t always need access to your computer system to exploit it – they can do it remotely. This is done by infecting websites with malicious code that will be executed when someone visits the website.
This type of attack is known as a ‘drive-by download’, and it can occur without the user even knowing. To protect yourself from this attack, make sure you only visit websites you trust and install reliable security software on your computer.
Most Hacks Occur Offline
Although hacking is often associated with the internet, most hacks occur offline. Almost ¾ of hacking-related crimes are committed using malicious software that has been installed on the victim’s computer.
The most common victims of this type of crime are employees with access to sensitive information.
Hackers will either gain physical access to their devices, bug them with keyloggers, or trick them into installing malware via email attachments or USB drives.
Don’t think you can avoid risk by keeping your data in-house either – hackers don’t care where it is stored! As long as they have access to your system, they can exploit it for financial gain in any way they see fit, regardless of whether it’s online or offline.
This happens when a hacker installs malware on a computer that allows them to control that computer remotely. They can then use it to launch attacks on other systems, steal sensitive data, or even use it to mine cryptocurrencies.
To protect yourself from this attack, ensure you have reliable security software installed on your computer and keep it up-to-date. You should also be careful about what websites you visit and what files you download.
Hackers Can Steal Your Identity
One of the scariest things about hacking is that hackers can steal and use your identity for their own gain. This can include stealing your money, fraudulently opening accounts in your name, or even taking out loans in your name.
To protect yourself from this type of attack, it is essential to keep your personal information secure. This includes your name, address, date of birth, passport number and any banking details you may have stored in your email account.
The safest way to do this is by storing them on an encrypted hard drive that won’t be accessed if your computer is stolen or hacked.
Hackers Are Getting Younger
In the past, most hackers were in their late teens or early twenties. These days, however, that is changing. Hackers are getting younger and may not even realise what they’re doing is illegal.
This makes it difficult for law enforcement agencies to catch them.
Although there’s no specific “age of criminal responsibility”, minors can be charged if a court determines that they understood right from wrong when they committed an offence.
If you believe your child might be involved with hacking, we encourage you to talk to them and seek professional help if necessary.
It is essential to keep your data secure, and this article has provided some great insights into how hackers steal it. If you are concerned about your safety online or have uncovered any suspicious behaviour on your system, call a website security expert to handle the situation.