Cybercriminals are quick to exploit any vulnerabilities in your systems. Be on the alert – they may attack anyone at any moment! The threat of digital extortion comes in many forms such as ransomware, sextortion and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks.
Here are some tips on how to increase your security online.
1) Ransomware
This is a type of malware, which encrypts data and locks down entire systems.
Tips on how to avoid being a victim of ransomware:
- Make regular backups;
- Download apps only from authorized stores;
- Keep your antivirus updated;
Campaign Quiz: test your knowledge on ransomware
2) Sextortion
In this case, criminals coerce or trick their victims into sharing explicit images or videos, which are then used for blackmail.
Criminals are counting on sextortion victims to feel shame.
If you are a victim of sextortion:
- Cease all communication;
- Don’t agree to the blackmailer's requests;
- Take screen captures, and note date, time and URL;
- Report it to police.
Anyone can be a victim of #sextortion
Campaign quiz: Four questions to test your knowledge on sextortion
3) DDoS attacks
With this form of cybercrime, criminals flood a company’s network with traffic to bring down servers.
Tips to avoid DDoS attacks:
- Actively monitor traffic and network performance;
- Boost network security and update systems;
- Practice good cyber hygiene;
- Know how to recognize the signs of an attack;
- Ensure IT teams are prepared to respond.
Campaign quiz: test your general knowledge on cyber hygiene
