What is Hacking and How to Prevent it?

 

                         WHAT IS HACKING? 

Hacking is the catch-all term for any type of misuse of a computer to break the security of another computing system to steal data, corrupt systems or files, commandeer the environment or disrupt data-related activities in any way. It can be done in many ways. The most common form is phishing scams. Hackers attempt to trick users into opening email attachments, sharing personal information, obtaining logins and passwords, or injecting malware into network computing environments. Some of the most devastating security breaches in recent years, including the Wannacry malware attack, began as phishing scams that impacted targeted companies and associated partners, customers, government agencies, and more. (Techopedia, 2020) 


> HOW CAN HACKERS FIND YOU?
Anyone with an Internet-connected computer is vulnerable to threats from computer hackers and online predators. These online bad guys usually use phishing scams, spam emails, instant messages, and fake girlfriend websites to drop dangerous malware on your computer and compromise your computer security. If your computer isn't protected by a firewall, hackers can also try to access your computer and personal information directly. You can monitor conversations and browse the backend of her unique website. Criminals can usually disguise their identities to divulge sensitive personal and financial information or trick you.

> HOW WILL YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE BEEN HACKED?
Check the accuracy of personal accounts, credit cards, and documents. Are there any outstanding transactions? Suspicious or unauthorized changes? In this case, it could be due to dangerous malware installed by attackers or hackers.

A hacked account can greatly embarrass your brand, lose followers, get you kicked out of your network, and even get you into legal trouble. Because you are responsible.
Before you say, "This won't happen to me," consider that in recent years, more and more cyberattacks have targeted well-known people and brands.

> STEPS TO TAKE TO PROTECT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS
1. Get Alerted About Suspicious Activity
You need to look deeper into their hearts than just fan comments and media scrutiny: pay attention to suspicious logins and spot anything suspicious early. Consider installing an intrusion detection app on your phone. These apps detect suspicious activity and unauthorized access to your online accounts.

One App to try is Avast which serves as a security system for your personal and business accounts. 




2. Pay Attention to Risks
- You need to be aware that the risks of social media hacking are all around you and you can prevent most of them. 

For example: 

* Always log out of your social media accounts after use. 
* Clear your cache regularly. 
* Put a screen lock on any phone with social media access. 
* Don’t leave your phone lying around in cafes, bars, or public spaces. 
* Be careful when clicking on unknown links. 

Sometimes, we can get a little complacent, especially when we are busy with other things. However, mitigating these basic risks will minimize your risk of social media hacking.

3. Running Regular Security Checks
Running regular security checks on your accounts is a great way to stay on top of your social media security. Doing this monthly for all your social media accounts is better done doing nothing. This doesn’t need to take hours, but you may find flaws in your security that you didn’t know existed.

























































REFERENCES:

 
The Dangers of Hacking and What a Hacker. (n.d.). © Copyright 2004 - 2022 Webroot Inc. All Rights Reserved. https://www.webroot.com/us/en/resources/tips-articles/computer-security-threats-hackers

Day, C. (2021, October 12). Are Your Accounts Safe from Social Media Hacking? Agorapulse. https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/social-media-hacking-tips/amp/

Techopedia. (2020, March 27). Hacking. Techopedia.com. https://www.techopedia.com/definition/26361/hacking




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