How to use the network safely?

Despite the fact that slogans about safe use of the Internet are as worn out as jeans on the knees, it is still worth remembering to use the Internet wisely. Below we remind you of important rules for securing personal data from uncontrolled use, and we also briefly explain what are currently the most popular types of cyberattacks. Don’t be fooled and take care of cybersecurity today!

The most common types of cyberattacks

Phishing

This is a method that involves impersonating a well-known and trusted website, sending the victim emails or text messages encouraging them to open links contained within them. After doing so, the link redirects you to a page that requires you to provide data such as a credit card number or online banking login details. To avoid this, pay attention to the URL of the page, and also watch out for any redirects and pop-ups related to logging in.

Scam

Here, in turn, gaining the victim’s trust is more important than technical solutions. You could say that this is the online version of the “grandchild” theft, except that it takes a bit more time. The cyber fraudster gains trust, is nice, and after a while disappears with the victim’s savings. Similar techniques are used by fraudsters who prepare an announcement about a fundraiser for the needy, and even by some not-so-dishonest influencers.

Ransomware

This type of attack can be described as a “virtual kidnapping”, which targets valuable files for the user. Access to them is blocked using special encryption techniques, and their unblocking is possible only after paying a ransom. Companies are usually vulnerable to this type of attack, as hackers carefully select their victims, counting on a large and quick profit.

How to navigate the web safely?

Create a good password

If you’ve ever been shocked by the sight of configuration passwords consisting of an infinitely long sequence of letters and numbers that are impossible to remember, know that such passwords are a good way to protect yourself. In short, if you create your own password, forget about your name, your loved ones, dates of birth and other too obvious solutions. Try to come up with a password that is long and not associated with you and your preferences. However, try to remember it, because otherwise you will be the one playing the hacker on your own account.

Don’t forget about antivirus

To be able to say that your system does not need an antivirus to be safe, you must have a certain level of proven knowledge in the field of computer science. Otherwise, you will not be able to defend yourself against all kinds of viruses, worms and other types of “attractions” that the lack of appropriate software can give you. When choosing an antivirus, pay attention to the most important functions, such as protection of sensitive data on the network or the ability to remotely find a lost device.

Use the Internet wisely

This sentence clearly flies between users’ ears at the speed of light, leaving no echo behind. Why? Because we usually do not wonder what exactly is hidden behind this phrase. We do not read the regulations of online stores and do not wonder whether a new Internet lover is not lying about his unexpected expenses. Another common problem is sharing too much information about oneself on social media, which helps fraudsters to better “fish out” a wealthy victim.

Only use a trusted network

It is understandable that you cannot always use the Internet using a secured network in the privacy of your home. However, if you are in a public place, try not to use the Wi-Fi networks generally available at train stations or in hotels, because they are much less protected against potential attacks by cybercriminals. Under no circumstances should you log in to your email, make transfers or perform other activities that expose your data to theft. Otherwise, you may soon find out that you have a loan, your own business and debts for a vacation in the Bahamas.

Safe browsing on the Internet is absolutely possible, but it requires some commitment in the form of choosing security software, installing appropriate updates, and carefully selecting websites on which we look for necessary information.

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