How Do Hackers Get Onto Your Devices?
It can be difficult to know when your computer has been hacked. These days experienced hackers are so advanced, you can easily become a victim without realizing it.
Be watchful and very careful if you see anything out of the ordinary while using your computer. For example, you may be using your email account and you are suddenly logged out, and then prompted to log back in. This happens in a flash and indicates that an attack has occurred. Immediately change your password before logging back in.
Passwords are a huge issue and easy target for hackers. There are software packages available that can be used to scan all kinds of possibilities for passwords. Don’t use any numbers or letters that match your birthday month or the date of a holiday, anniversary, etc. as doing this makes your account an easy target.
Using longer passwords will make it harder for these programs to detect your password. You can now use a “two-step” authentication to keep your computer and accounts more secure. Two-step authentication not only requires your password, but additionally, a message is sent to your smartphone with a code that you must enter before accessing your account. The user must log in with that code in order to gain access to the account. This is a very simple and effective option to use.
Another area that allows a hacker access to your devices and computer is your Firewall. Always ensure that this is turned on, and make sure to keep it updated. The same goes for your anti-virus program. New viruses are discovered all the time, so you have to stay updated for your protection to work effectively.
Your webcam is another area to be cautious of. If you always have it turned on, you could unwittingly allow a stalker to watch you. With mobile devices this threat is very common and real. Cyber-attacks and bullying cases are on the rise each day. Don’t become a victim, only turn on your webcam when you are intending to use it.
Hackers love to use things like emojis, screen savers, free downloads and coupons to infect your computer. If one of these pops onto your screen; ignore it. Never, but never, click on it!
Everyone uses email and this is another common way for hackers to infect your computer. Common subject lines are those that only say “RE” or “Hi”, or “I Love You” etc. If you see an actual link in a headline delete it immediately.
Now that you know how hackers get onto your devices, you can take steps to keep them off! Sign up below for our free guide or click or tap here to purchase our Web of Deception – Online Security eBook.
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