Many of us have bad cyber habits, like reusing passwords or connecting to unsecured WiFi. These habits make it easy for hackers to steal our personal information and use it for their own gain, or sell it on the dark web. Hackers are a real danger. They keep evolving and finding new ways to break into our systems and steal our data.
The cybersecurity field is growing rapidly, with 4.7 million professionals worldwide. This shows how important cybersecurity has become, as companies everywhere focus on protecting their information systems from cyber threats.
By 2025, global cybercrime is expected to cost $10.5 trillion each year, highlighting the urgent need for better cybersecurity measures. This is why it is important to learn about the different ways people might try to steal your personal and financial information. This includes online scams, like those on Facebook, as well as phishing, smishing, and vishing scams.
Here are 12 clear signs you’re setting yourself up for a breach.
Unusual Account Activity
If you notice unexpected logins from unfamiliar locations or new devices connected to your account, it’s a red flag. Hackers often start by quietly accessing your accounts without drawing attention. If you see any strange activity, it’s crucial to act immediately to secure your account and prevent further unauthorized access.
Slow Computer Performance
If your device suddenly runs slower than usual or if programs take longer to load and crash frequently, it could be a sign of trouble. Malware or unauthorized software can drain your system’s resources, causing these noticeable slowdowns. Additionally, you might notice increased fan noise or overheating as your computer struggles to keep up with the extra load. Regular system scans and updates can help prevent these issues.
Frequent Pop-ups
An increase in pop-up ads, especially when you’re not browsing the internet, is a warning sign. If these pop-ups are encouraging you to download software or visit specific websites, it’s particularly suspicious. This is a classic indication of adware or malware infection and can often be a precursor to more severe hacks.
New Toolbars in Your Browser
If you notice new toolbars or extensions you didn’t install, or if your default searches engine or homepage has changed without your permission. These unwanted browser modifications indicate that your browser may have been hijacked. To fix this, remove any suspicious add-ons and reset your browser settings. It’s also a good idea to run a malware scan to ensure your system is clean.
Random Shutdowns and Restarts
If your device shuts down or restarts without warning, or if you experience frequent blue screens of death (BSOD), it’s a cause for concern. Malicious software can cause these instabilities, leading to random shutdowns and restarts. Checking your system for malware and ensuring all software and drivers are up to date can help resolve these issues.
Mysterious Emails and Messages Sent from Your Account
If friends or colleagues receive strange emails from you, or if your sent folder contains messages you didn’t write, it’s a red flag. Hackers often use compromised email accounts to spread malware or phishing scams. Change your password immediately and enable two-factor authentication to secure your account. Also, notify your contacts not to open any suspicious emails from you.
Take the example of the Singaporean company, Saber Holdings Pte Ltd. A cybercriminal pretended to be Saber’s CEO on WhatsApp and tricked an employee into transferring a large sum of money, supposedly for a business deal. The fraudster also hacked the CEO’s email to send more instructions. The employee sent €700,000 to a Hong Kong company’s account. Saber was able to get the money back but probably faced high legal expenses.
Receiving Unusual Phone Call or Email
Modern hackers frequently use a mix of methods, involving computers, phones, and other tools, to carry out their attacks. For example, someone might call you saying they are from your bank, asking you to update your account details due to a system update. If you choose to do it online instead of over the phone, they will guide you to a fake website which is a clever imitation of your bank’s website. This will lead to hacking of your system.
As a matter of fact, only 8% of businesses that pay ransom to hackers get all their data back.
Security Software Disabled
If your antivirus or firewall is turned off without your knowledge or if you’re unable to update or run your security software, it’s a serious concern. Disabling security measures is a common tactic hackers use to make your system more vulnerable. Running a full antivirus scan on your device can help ensure no malware remains.
Increased Data Usage
If you notice a sudden spike in your data usage or unexplained charges on your internet bill, it’s a warning sign. Hackers might be using your data for illegal activities, causing these unexpected increases.
Passwords Not Working
If you’re locked out of your accounts even though you’re entering the correct password, or if you receive password reset emails that you didn’t request, it’s a warning sign. Hackers might have changed your passwords to lock you out of your accounts. Immediately attempt to reset your passwords and check your account security settings. Contact customer support for any affected services to regain control.
Ransom Messages
If you receive a message demanding payment to restore access to your files or device, or threats to expose your personal data unless you pay, it’s a clear warning sign. This is a classic indication of a ransom ware attack, where hackers encrypt your data and demand payment for the decryption key.
Your Device Behaving Strangely
If your mouse moves on its own or if unfamiliar programs or files start appearing on your device, it’s a cause for concern. These are telltale signs that someone might be remotely controlling your device.
