How To Prevent From Internet Danger.

With the irreversible phenomenon of digital transformation, the user is increasingly exposed to the dangers of the internet: both for home and business use. Lack of care, naivety and lack of information are the causes of the main daily risk situations. 

In this sense, the dangers of the internet increase when the user feels safe and ends up relaxing, leaving aside basic and intuitive care. Therefore, adopting good security practices as a routine is essential for users of all levels.

Another important point is the awareness of the company’s decision makers. In many cases managers and owners of mid-sized companies imagine that they are not the target of hackers . However, precisely because it is known that this type of environment is generally less protected, they are the first to suffer attacks.

Internet dangers: which are the most common?

Being aware of the main risks is the first step towards adopting preventive and safe measures, minimizing the risk of attacks and damages. Check out the main ones.

MALICIOUS LINKS

Although cliché, malicious links are one of the main causes of internet attacks. One of the oldest and still valid rules for this item is: never click on links that don’t come from reliable sources.
Malicious links are spread advertisements, emails (including fake ones, coming from known senders), advertisement windows, among others. Therefore, always take some precautions before clicking on a link, such as checking its identification in the lower left bar of the navigation window.

FAKE PAGES

In addition to links, fake or cloned pages are also common. Replicas are often created that look 100% faithful to the original, so the only way to identify that it is a fraud is by looking at the URL address (link). The fake URL will usually have small details that are different from the original, being extra or missing letters and numbers. The main purpose is usually to simulate bank or store pages, to steal data or extort money in fake purchases.

WIFI RELEASED

Open Wi-Fi connections, such as those offered in restaurants, malls and other collective and public environments, are very risky.  

As they have free access without restrictions, the signal transmitted between the internet server and the device can be invaded by hackers, which can infect computers, steal and leak data.  

• 

SUSPICIOUS FILES

Another common internet hazard is suspicious files. They are often sent in fake emails or are bundled with free downloadable software. In most cases these are programs that automatically install themselves on the computer when opened. They are used to invade computers and to spread viruses. Damage may be irreversible. 

RAMSOWARE’S

Ramsonware is a kind of malicious code that blocks information and access to your computer, while making it accessible for criminals. Once the invasion is made, hackers often extort money or information in exchange for re-opening access. There is even an episode of the Black Mirror series called Shut Up and Dance  that deals with this subject. 

 It is common to ask for information or Bitcoins (virtual currency) in exchange for the release. As a case of blackmail, there is no guarantee of release or that the extortion will not return again. Therefore, in these cases, it is essential not to give in to blackmail and call the Police.

• 

how to prevent 

Now that you’ve learned to identify the biggest risks, check out what to do to avoid suffering online attacks and falling for those scams.

• Enable two-step verification on your passwords. This simple practice prevents a series of attacks and intrusions.  
• Block pop up ads, reducing the risk of malicious advertisements. There are several programs and extensions that have this functionality.   
• Update the version of the operating system and software installed on the computer. Lots of developer updates aimed at fixing security holes.  
• Keep the  firewall turned on at all times and, if possible, invest in a good paid antivirus. Those available for free are very limited and only superficially protective.   
• Choose, whenever possible, to use the anonymous tab to avoid data collection. Thus, you reduce the amount of personal data available on the internet;  
• Never download files or programs whose provenance is doubtful. Always check the suitability of the material and also search in forums and expert pages.