As a matter of fact, most of the transactions we undertake these days are conducted via the internet. On the other hand, it has also put our lives at risk. Do you know how? A high risk exists that your personal information might be exposed to hackers. Hackers are using a variety of methods to steal people’s personal information. I have put together some ways in which hackers are stealing data, as well as how you can prevent this cyber theft from happening to you.
The 5 Most Common Ways of Cyber Theft and How to Prevent Them
- Malware
There are several malicious programs that can steal data from your mobile, delete it from your mobile, track it secretly, or update the core functionality of your mobile by installing malicious software. These malicious programs can be installed by clicking on unauthorized ads, pop-ups, or installing pirated software.
Tips: Avoid clicking on pop-ups, do not download fake software, and keep your apps and operating system up-to-date. It is highly recommended that you use an anti-virus application for your phone.
- Through Email
Phone hacker sent you a misleading email which politely asked you to click on the email in order to verify your identity. The email makes you feel like it has been sent by an authorized bank that asks you to provide your bank details to verify your identity. If you will not do it, your ATM card will be blocked. Clicking on the email will redirect you to a landing page. Users who fill out the bank details there are sent directly to hackers rather than a bank, when the user fills out the bank details.
In addition, the email might contain an attachment. Once you open the attachment, malware will be installed on your mobile device and steal your personal information.
Tips: Please check the domain and spelling of the email address and if you find anything suspicious, do not click on the link, do not download the file from the untrusted sources. Take your time to understand the situation.
- Through Call or Message
Your credit card may be blocked or you may win the prize. You may be asked for your internet banking password or OTP to gain access to your account. Once he gets access to your details, he can use them for a variety of purposes. Short links in messages may lead to unsuspicious websites.
Tips: Don’t share your personal information over the phone or in a message. Verify the sender’s information before clicking on any message. Never share your OTP with anyone else over the phone or in a message.
- Free Wi-Fi
It is natural for us to get excited when we hear the word “free,” and the same goes for this. You can get free wi-fi at cafes or railway stations. Connecting to an insecure network increases your chances of getting hacked. Hiring a hacker can get access to your bank accounts, social accounts, and passwords.
Tips: Connecting your old phone to open wi-fi or free wi-fi is risky. Just because it’s free doesn’t mean it’s safe. If you use public wi-fi, avoid making any financial transactions or accessing any sensitive information.
- Malicious Mobile Apps
In your opinion, are all apps on Google Play or the App Store authentic? The apps on the Play Store aren’t all safe to use. Some of the apps may contain code snippets that can install malware on your phone and steal your data. It asks for several permissions, and the distributors misuse your details.
Tips: Whenever you download a new mobile app, check the permissions. Never download an app from third-party resources. Never download a pirated app.
Keep an eye on your phone’s security at all times.
