How to detect a cyber attack: Staying alert in the digital age
September 19, 2023
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According to statistics, it is reported that unauthorized access to data is unlikely to be detected for approximately 200 days after an attack 24 Channels. This fact underlines
According to statistics, it is reported that unauthorized access to data is unlikely to be detected for approximately 200 days after an attack 24 Channels. This fact underlines the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to protect digital assets. Tet Cybersecurity Director Uldis Libietis shared important details on how to recognize a cyberattack and protect against it.
silent attacks
Most cyberattacks and malware designed to collect or manipulate data operate secretly and are often invisible to the user.
The goal is to remain hidden and ensure that the software or attackers are not detected in the background. Whether the goal is to extract data, damage data, or create a long-term access point, attackers try to avoid activating security systems, deleting evidence, and abandoning escape routes.
However, this rule does not apply to high-profile attacks such as cryptoviruses, ransomware, or denial-of-service (DoS) attacks that aim to create chaos and fear through pop-ups, ads, and blackmail messages.
Advanced phishing
One of the most common cyber threats today is phishing attacks. These deceptive campaigns have evolved significantly in recent years, and they have become increasingly difficult to distinguish from legitimate messages. Attackers are now creating emails that impersonate government agencies and service providers, adding personalization, company logos, and forged signatures.
Sophistication also extends to content that aligns with the recipient’s interests, making phishing emails look eerily trustworthy.
Personalization and scare tactics
Phishing emails can also contain stolen personal information, adding an eerie level of realism. Such messages may demand money and threaten to release inappropriate webcam recordings, including the victim’s first name, last name, and password.
This data is often obtained from the dark web, so it is extremely important to frequently update passwords for all accounts and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) if available.
social engineering
Cyber attacks are not limited to email. Social engineering tactics can manifest through texts, calls, social media, and even in-person meetings. Caution should include evaluating messages from strangers and sources you trust.
Unlicensed Software
Downloading files, especially from untrusted sources or illegal software, poses significant risks. Files that appear harmless may contain malware that runs silently and could potentially cause you to lose control of your computer.
Unauthorized use of software not only violates legal boundaries but also serves as a primary vector for malware to enter.
Trust but verify
The internet can be misleading with its wide range of possibilities. The principle of “trust but verify” should govern all online interactions. Cybersecurity experts emphasize that you should thoroughly check everything you find on the internet, even if the trust seems justified.
How to detect a cyber attack
To reduce risks, individuals and organizations need to be careful and aware of potential cyber threats. Some common signs of a cyber attack or suspicious activity are:
Pop-up ads in the corners of your screen or web browser.
Threatening messages asking you to download anti-virus software.
Reporting unexpected money transfers or cryptocurrency transactions.
Unexplained changes to the web browser’s toolbar or search engine.
New social media links that are not verified or initiated.
Passwords that suddenly stop working without user intervention.
Foreign software or files appear on your computer.
Mouse cursor movement or action without user input.
Disabled antivirus, task manager, firewall or RegEdit program.
Your computer runs slowly even when no programs are running.
Unable to install the latest updates for supported software.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is critical to remain knowledgeable and alert about cyber threats. Awareness combined with proactive cybersecurity measures is the best defense against the invisible threat of cyberattacks.
John Wilkes is a seasoned journalist and author at Div Bracket. He specializes in covering trending news across a wide range of topics, from politics to entertainment and everything in between.