During the month of October, awareness about cybersecurity worldwide is promoted. Although consumers and businesses have become more aware of tactics such as phishing or malware, there are still other less known methods and devices widely used by cybercriminals. During a period when a drastic increase in the number of attacks is documented and people are increasingly using smart devices in their daily lives, it is essential that both companies and users give proper importance to security.
Thinking about it, thePalo Alto Networks, a leading cybersecurity company dedicated to protecting organizations and consumers against digital threats, has selected the main recent discoveries about attacks on smart devices to warn about the dangers that can affect anyone.
According to Marcos Oliveira, Country Manager of Palo Alto Networks in Brazil, despite the unprecedented increase in cyberattacks, users still believe that incidents are unrelated to them. "Unfortunately, in the current threat landscape, everyone is susceptible, and the consequences of cybercrime can be incredibly severe for companies and consumers," states the executive.
The potential for consumers to become victims of cybercrimes has skyrocketed as the speed of attacks also advances. In nearly 45% of cybersecurity cases recorded by Palo Alto Networks this year, criminals exfiltrated data within less than a day after the attack, which means that actions to stop them must occur within a few hours before the information is compromised.
For users, the pathways of cybercrimes are diversifying rapidly. Although Palo Alto Networks recorded a 17% reduction in phishing attacks in 2023, many new routes have opened up through the smart devices that have entered the market.
New types of attacks detected
There are still several types of attacks that consumers need to be aware of, from fake Wi-Fi networks to smart speakers, according to researchers at Palo Alto Networks, who have compiled the following definitive guide to help users protect themselves and keep their personal devices safe:
- Ataques evil twin:They consist of setting up a fake Wi-Fi network in public places, such as restaurants or airports, tricking users into connecting to it. This allows intercepting data such as passwords, emails, and bank card information.
- Juice jacking:The intruders access public charging stations, such as those found in airports or cafes, to steal data. When users connect their devices to these power stations, malicious software can be injected into the devices.
- Cryptojacking:it is the seizure of users' devices to mine cryptocurrencies without their knowledge. This unauthorized activity may lead to increased electricity costs, reduced device performance, and potential hardware damage.
- Smart devices:Cybercriminals can target consumers on devices that go far beyond just phones or computers. Refrigerators, coffee makers, and other connected devices can be entry points to access more vulnerable systems.
- Portable devices:Electronic fitness devices and other wearable devices, such as watches, can expose personal and health data, potentially leading to data breaches for consumers or businesses.
- Automotive systems:Cars with internet-connected entertainment systems can also be targets for hackers. Hackers can access the user's personal data, track their location, or even interfere with system functions.
In 2023, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center, there was a 72% increase in data breaches compared to 2021, which set the record. As intruders become increasingly creative in the ways they target people, and with a recorded 49% year-over-year increase in victims posted on ransomware breach sites, it has become increasingly important for consumers and companies to take effective cybersecurity measures.
“While the number of attacks, the level of sophistication and the methods used are evolving rapidly, the good news from a consumer perspective is that the chances of being hacked can be significantly reduced by following some general best practices,” concludes Oliveira.
To protect personal data, consumers should always ensure their devices have the latest security updates, use strong and unique passwords, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. Furthermore, it is essential to be careful with what they download or click on, and always value the use of antivirus software for an additional layer of protection.
