The main cybersecurity threats

Ransom demands, cyberattacks on your identity, computer viruses: discover the main cybersecurity threats.

During the health crisis, our means of communicating with the outside world became almost exclusively digital. This forced digitalisation of our human relationships doesn't come without risk. Cybersecurity threats are numerous, sometimes obvious (such as a ransom demand) or more invisible (such as identity theft).

1. Digital ransom demands: a constant cyber threat

"Ransomware", which can be translated as "ransom software", is malware that blocks access to your computer. To unlock it, the hacker asks you to pay. Payment is usually demanded in cryptocurrency.

This cyber threat, which has been steadily increasing since 2012, can take various forms. Since the hacker has full access to your computer (files, photos, webcam), they may find personal or compromising files. This data risks being published online if you don't give in to the digital blackmailer's demands.

Of course, giving in to blackmail should be avoided at all costs… First, contact the police to file a complaint. Don't hesitate to turn to professionals either: our new Safe & Connected assistance service can help you!

2. Connected devices: another source of cybersecurity threats

We own more and more connected devices: fitness bands, wireless earbuds, smart scales… but also TVs, fridges, blinds, voice assistants... They're part of what's known as the Internet of Things, and are a genuine open door for cyberattacks.

Some online cybersecurity articles also mention far more surprising devices that can be hacked. Smart cars could become a target for attacks: hackers could get in through smart chargers. Why? To lock you out of your car until you pay up.

3. Your identity as the target of a cyberattack

Those confronted with this cyber threat talk about a "surge in real-time phishing proxies". But what does that mean? Phishing is a technique that lets hackers harvest personal information.

What for? Most often, to impersonate you and use your bank card.

Phishing methods are usually based on an honest mistake. Sometimes all it takes is one click on a fraudulent email for your identity to be stolen.

The proxy threatening your cybersecurity

A proxy is a program that sits between you and the site you're visiting. Most of them are harmless, don't worry. But it's precisely on this basis that hackers operate.

A malicious proxy, acting as an intermediary, can perfectly well intercept your transactions on a site considered secure. To avoid this kind of trap, always confirm your payment using a digital key or two-factor authentication.

Don't hesitate to keep a close eye on withdrawals from your bank account either. If in doubt, call your bank advisor: they can guide you through the steps to take.

4. The digitalisation of work is also an open door to cyberattacks

The health crisis has upended our ways of working. Many people chose the digital route to stay in touch with their loved ones. Some used it to retrain, or to urgently support the needs of their small business.

The personal computer has become a work tool. Hackers are well aware of this. Acting for their own profit or on behalf of jealous competitors, they can damage your small digital world. Demanding a ransom, planting a virus in your database, collecting sensitive information… You can protect yourself with good antivirus software.

Don't hesitate to read our tips for secure remote working.

5. Don't forget the ancestor of all cybersecurity threats: the computer virus

According to our survey, your main fear is that your computer becomes partially or completely unusable. Such a problem can result from a technical crash, but also from a computer virus.

Computer viruses are constantly changing and evolving along with technology. The result, however, is always the same: destroying your data or rendering your computer inoperative. Hackers use the same method as for phishing or ransom demands. One click on a fraudulent email or a shady pop-up, and your entire digital world can vanish.

Antivirus software remains the best solution to prevent a total loss of your computer. Taking out insurance or an assistance contract also ensures you get proper support and technical help in case of (major) trouble.

Don't hesitate to discover*** our new Safe & Connected assistance service too: it protects you against digital troubles!

Article written in collaboration with We are the Words.