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When you open your laptop or your mobile device, what is the first thing you do? Do you head to your favorite social media site to skim the latest news, or do you place your weekly grocery delivery order? No matter what your daily online habits are, even the slightest degree of caution can go a long way in staying secure online.
That’s because hackers are experts at hiding malware in your everyday online routines, or even infiltrating your cookies to steal login information and learn about your personal preferences.
According to a StatsCan Canadian internet use survey, six out of ten internet users reported experiencing a cybersecurity incident. There are many hoops to jump through when navigating the digital landscape. By taking the necessary steps to remedy vulnerabilities in your digital activity, you can dramatically improve your online protection.
Cybercriminals take advantage of online users through routine avenues you would not expect. Here are three common ways that cybercriminals eavesdrop on online users.
Adware, or advertising-supported software, generates ads in the user interface of a person’s device. Adware is most often used to generate revenue for the developer by targeting unsuspecting online users with personalized ads paid by third parties. These third parties usually pay per view, click, or application installation.
Though not always malicious, adware crosses into dangerous territory when it is downloaded without a user’s consent and has nefarious intent. In this case, the adware becomes known as a potentially unwanted application (PUA) that can remain undetected on users’ devices for long periods of time. According to a report by the Cybersecure Policy Exchange, an unintentionally installed or downloaded computer virus or piece of malware is one of the top five cybercrimes that Canadians experience. The PUA can then create issues like frequent crashes and slow performance.
Users unknowingly download adware onto their device when they download a free ad-supported program or visit a non-secure site that does not use the Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) to encrypt online communication.
Hackers also use invasive tactics known as ad injections, where they inject ads with malicious code for increased monetary gain. This is a practice known as “malvertising.” If a user clicks on a seemingly legitimate and well-placed ad, they risk exposing themselves to numerous online threats. These ads can be infected with malware such as viruses or spyware. For example, hackers can exploit browser vulnerabilities to download malware, steal information about the device system, and gain control over its operations. Hackers can also use malvertising to run fraudulent tech support scams, steal cookie data, or sell information to third-party ad networks.
Another vulnerability that many may not realize is their browser’s built-in autofill functions. As tempting as it is to use your browser’s autofill function to populate a long form, this shortcut may not be safe. Cybercriminals have found ways to capture credentials by inserting fake login boxes onto a web page that users cannot see. So, when you accept the option to autofill your username and password, you are also populating these fake boxes.
Take a proactive approach to your digital protection the next time you are browsing the internet by reassessing your online habits. Check out these five tips to ensure you are staying as safe as possible online.
Cookie data can contain anything from login information to credit card numbers. Cybercriminals looking to exploit this information can hijack browser sessions to pose as legitimate users and steal cookies as they travel across networks and servers. As a result, it is essential for online users to regularly clear out their cookies to better protect their information from falling into the wrong hands. Navigate to your browser’s history, where you can wipe the data associated with each browser session, including your cookies.
Clearing your browser’s cookie data will also remove your saved logins, which is why leveraging a password manager can make it easier to access regularly visited online accounts.
Many browsers come with a built-in password generator and manager; however, it is better to entrust your logins and password to a reputable password manager. Browser password managers are not as secure as password managers, because anyone who has access to your device will also access your online information. A password manager, provides a more secure solution since it requires you to log in with a separate master password. A password manager also works across various browsers and can generate stronger passwords than those created by your browser.
In addition to clearing cookie data, users should adjust their browser settings to ensure their online sessions remain private.
Another option is to access the internet in Private Browsing Mode to automatically block third-party tracking, making it a quick and easy option to ensure private browsing. Users can also enable the “do not track” function of their browser to prevent third-party tracking by advertisers and websites. Additionally, you can adjust your browser settings to block pop-up ads and control site permissions, such as access to cameras and locations.
Ad blockers suppress unwanted and potentially malicious ads to ensure a safer browsing experience. Ad blockers can also make it easier to view page layout by removing distracting ads and optimizing page load speed. Additionally, they prevent websites from tracking your information that third parties can sell.
Deploying a security solution like McAfee+ Ultimate ensures the safest internet browsing experience through a holistic approach for threat detection, protection, and remediation. Equipped with a password manager, antivirus software, and firewall protection, users can effectively sidestep online threats while browsing the internet. Moreover, it includes comprehensive privacy and identity protection, such as our Personal Data Cleanup, dark web monitoring, credit monitoring, along with ways you can quickly Lock or freeze your credit file to help prevent accounts from being opened in your name.
Your online behavior can say a lot about you so make sure you safeguard your internet protection. Whether it is through malvertising or invisible forms, hackers can glean information to paint a picture of who you are to target you through deceptive tactics. Cybercriminals are always looking for vulnerabilities which is why assessing your online habits sooner rather than later is a critical first step to smarter online browsing.
The post How to Protect Your Online Privacy appeared first on McAfee Blog.
As we continue to evolve technologically, so do cybercriminals in their never-ending quest to exploit vulnerabilities in our digital lives. The previous years have clearly shown that cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging new technologies and trends to trick their victims. As we move into another year, it’s crucial to be aware of the tried and tested tactics these cyber criminals use and stay prepared against potential threats.
In this article, we delve deeper into one such tactic that remains a favorite among cybercriminals – ‘phishing‘ via emails. We focus on the trickiest and most dangerous email subject lines that have been commonly used in worldwide phishing emails. Recognizing these ‘ baits’ can be your first step towards safeguarding your identity and valuables against cybercriminals. Beware, there are plenty of these ‘phishes’ in the sea, and it helps to be on your guard at all times.
Sending email messages filled with malicious links or infectious attachments remains a dominant strategy among cybercriminals. This strategy, commonly known as ‘phishing,’ is often disguised in a variety of forms. The term ‘Phishing’ is derived from the word ‘Fishing,’ and just like fishing, where bait is thrown in the hope that a fish will bite, phishing is a cyber trick where an email is the bait, and the unsuspecting user is the fish.
Today’s most common phishing scams found by McAfeerevealed that cybercriminals tend to use certain email subject lines more often. Although this does not mean that emails with other subject lines are not harmful, being aware of the most commonly used ones can give you an edge. The key takeaway here is to be vigilant and alert when it comes to all kinds of suspicious emails, not just those with specific subject lines.
Let’s take a look at the top five most commonly used subject lines in worldwide phishing emails. The list will give you an understanding of the varied strategies employed by cybercriminals. The strategies range from social networking invitations to ‘returned mail’ error messages and phony bank notifications. Be aware that these are just the tip of the iceberg and cyber criminals are continuously coming up with new and improved tactics to gain access to your sensitive data.
In the past, cybercriminals used to cast big, untargeted nets in the hopes of trapping as many victims as possible. However, recent trends indicate a shift towards more targeted and custom messages designed to ensnare more victims. A classic example of such a targeted phishing attack is the JP Morgan Chase phishing scam that took place earlier this year.
→ Dig Deeper: Mobile Bankers Beware: A New Phishing Scam Wants Your Money
The fact that phishing scams are still on the rise amplifies the importance of proactive measures to protect our digital assets. As technology advances, these threats continue to evolve, making ongoing vigilance, education, and caution in our online engagements critical in combating the increasing prevalence of such scams.
Phishing emails, often with a guise of urgency or familiarity, cunningly aim to deceive recipients into revealing sensitive information, most commonly, personal identities and financial credentials. These malicious messages are designed to prey on our trust and curiosity, making it crucial to scrutinize each email carefully. Cybercriminals behind phishing schemes are after the keys to both your digital identity and your wallet. They may seek login credentials, credit card details, social security numbers, and other sensitive data, which can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and even broader security breaches. It is essential to exercise caution and rely on best practices for email and internet security to thwart their efforts and safeguard your online presence.
While phishing emails come in a variety of forms, their ultimate goal remains the same: to steal your identity and money. As we move into the New Year, it’s prudent to add a few safety measures to your resolutions list. Protecting yourself from the increasingly sophisticated and customized phishing attacks requires more than awareness.
With an understanding of phishing techniques, the next step is learning how to protect yourself from falling prey to them. Ultimately, you are the first line of defense. If you’re vigilant, you can prevent cyber criminals from stealing your sensitive information. The following are some tips that can help you safeguard your digital life and assets:
First, avoid opening attachments or clicking on links from unknown senders. This is the primary method that cybercriminals use to install malware on your device. If you don’t recognize the sender of an email, or if something seems suspicious, don’t download the attachment or click on the link. Even if you do know the sender, be cautious if the email message seems odd or unexpected. Cybercriminals often hack into email accounts to send malicious links to the victim’s contacts.
Another important practice is to think twice before sharing personal information. If you’re asked for your name, address, banking information, password, or any other sensitive data on a website you accessed from an email, don’t supply this information, as it is likely a phishing attempt. In case of any doubts regarding the authenticity of a request for your information, contact the company directly using a phone number or web address you know to be correct.
Even with the most diligent practices, it’s still possible to fall victim to phishing attacks. Hence, having security nets in place is crucial. Start by being careful on social networks. Cybercriminals often hack into social media accounts and send out phishing links as the account owner. Even if a message appears to come from a friend, be cautious if it looks suspicious, especially if it contains only a link and no text.
Installing comprehensive security software is another essential step. McAfee LiveSafe service, for instance, offers full protection against malware and viruses on multiple devices. This software can be a lifeline if you happen to click a malicious link or download a hazardous attachment from an email.
It’s also a smart idea to regularly update your devices. Updates often contain patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last iteration of the software. Cybercriminals are always looking for vulnerabilities to exploit, so keeping your software up-to-date is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.
McAfee Pro Tip: Always update both your software and devices. First and foremost, software updates often include patches and fixes for vulnerabilities and weaknesses that cybercriminals can exploit. By staying up-to-date, you ensure that you have the latest defenses against evolving threats. Learn more about the importance of software updates.
Phishing attempts are a constant threat in the digital world, and their sophistication continues to evolve. Cybercriminals are relying more on tailored and targeted attacks to deceive their victims. The top five most dangerous email subject lines mentioned above are a clear indicator that criminals are becoming more nuanced in their attempts to trick victims. However, with awareness and vigilance, you can effectively avoid their traps.
Remember, your personal and financial information is valuable. Make sure to protect yourself from phishing attempts by avoiding suspicious links and attachments, thinking twice before sharing your personal information, being cautious on social media, installing comprehensive security software like McAfee+, and keeping all software up-to-date. Being prepared can make all the difference in keeping your digital life secure.
The post Top 5 Most Dangerous Email Subject Lines appeared first on McAfee Blog.
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