This is how they are stealing your data without you noticing (and how to protect yourself)

We live in a hyperconnected era where online security is more important than ever. However, cybersecurity remains an underestimated issue for many. In this article, we will explore the hidden dangers of the digital world, how to protect ourselves from them, and what we can do to improve our online security.

What is Cybersecurity really about?

Cybersecurity encompasses all practices and technologies aimed at protecting our data, devices, and systems from malicious attacks. It is not just about antivirus software and firewalls but also a combination of responsible habits, advanced technologies, and digital awareness. Cybersecurity involves:

• Protection of personal and financial information.
• Prevention of malware and ransomware attacks.
• Safe use of Wi-Fi networks and smart devices.
• Awareness of social engineering and phishing attacks.

Warning signs to avoid social media scams

Social media is fertile ground for cybercriminals. Some warning signs include:

• Fake profiles: With few followers and suspicious posts.
• Suspicious private messages: Requesting personal or financial information without any apparent reason.
• Offers too good to be true: Promising big earnings or prizes without justification.
• Shortened or suspicious links: These may lead to fraudulent sites that steal information.

To avoid falling for these scams, it is essential to review privacy settings on our social media accounts, avoid accepting friend requests from strangers, and not click on links from unverified sources.

The most common scams on WhatsApp and the Internet

WhatsApp and other messaging platforms are widely used for scams. Some of the most common ones include:

• Identity impersonation scams: Messages from “family members” or “friends” urgently asking for money due to medical emergencies or travel issues.
• Banking phishing: Fake financial institution alerts requesting credentials, passwords, or verification codes.
• Fake prizes: Messages claiming you have won a lottery and asking for personal data or a payment to release the prize.

Account hijacking: Sending fake verification codes to steal access to WhatsApp.

The importance of Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to our accounts. Although it may seem inconvenient at times, this measure drastically reduces the chances of a cybercriminal accessing our data, even if they obtain our password. To activate it:

1. Access the account security settings.
2. Enable two-factor authentication.
3. Set up a phone number or an authentication app like Google Authenticator.

How to create secure passwords

A secure password should meet certain requirements:

• Be at least 12 characters long.
• Include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
• Not contain common words or personal information.
• Be unique for each service.

Using password managers like LastPass or Bitwarden can be an excellent strategy for maintaining strong passwords without needing to memorize them all. Additionally, changing passwords periodically reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Are Google, Alexa, and our devices listening to us?

The fear of digital surveillance is a growing concern. While companies like Google and Amazon assure that their assistants only listen when activated with a keyword, there have been cases where conversations were recorded without consent. Moreover:

• Smart TVs collect data on our viewing habits.
• Robot vacuums map our homes and may share this information with third parties.
• Apps on our phones can access microphones and cameras without us realizing it.

To protect ourselves, it is advisable to review and disable unnecessary permissions on devices and apps, as well as use microphone and camera blockers when not in use.

Shocking cases of hacks and geolocation

Cybercriminals have shown that they can easily access our cameras, microphones, and locations. Some concerning cases include:

• Hacked cameras: Users discovering that strangers have accessed their home security cameras, streaming live images without their consent.
• Geolocation tracking: Apps recording our location even without our permission, selling this data to third parties for advertising or surveillance.
• Massive data breaches: Companies that have been hacked and exposed information of millions of people, including passwords, emails, and financial data.

To prevent this, it is important to review the privacy settings of our apps, use VPN networks to encrypt our connection, and avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without protection.

What do hackers do at their conferences?

Far from the stereotypical image of a hooded individual in a dark room, hackers attend conferences like DEF CON and Black Hat, where knowledge about cybersecurity is shared. These conferences include:

• Talks on new vulnerabilities and attack methods.
• Ethical hacking competitions to improve cybersecurity.
• Demonstrations of security flaws in popular devices.
• Recruitment of security experts by companies and governments.

Some hackers, known as “white hats,” work to improve security, while others, called “black hats,” seek to exploit vulnerabilities for malicious purposes.

Conclusion

The digital world is full of risks, but with the right knowledge and tools, we can minimize our exposure and protect our information. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and every action we take can make a difference in our online security and privacy.

Final Tips to Stay Safe:

• Keep your software and apps updated.
• Use secure connections and avoid unprotected public Wi-Fi networks.
• Do not share sensitive information on social media.
• Be wary of messages or emails requesting personal data.
• Enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts.

The key is prevention. With secure digital habits and a proactive mindset, we can enjoy technology without falling into the traps of cybercriminals.