How to protect yourself against cybercrime in 2015
There has always been the need to protect your computer from vicious malware and spyware attacks. In this age, cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the methods they use to steal data. Never before has computer security been so important.
Here are a few of the major cybercrime attacks to look out for in 2015:
1. Ransomware
Experts expect to see a rise in something called ‘ransomware’. This involves scammers locking your device and asking for a payment to unlock it.
2. Targeted attacks
An increase in more sophisticated, targeted attacks is also expected. In other words, criminals will hand-pick individuals corresponding to how much data they share online, rather than casting out a net and hoping that somebody will bite.
3. Social media malware
With the ever increasing use of social media, more and more criminals will abuse social media to scam people. This might be in the form of malicious videos, as well as malicious links within videos.
4. Open source code
Remember the Heartbleed and Shellshock attacks? Experts expect to see a similar incident happen again in 2015. Cybercriminals will seek vulnerabilities in source code to carry out their malicious activities.
5. Apple malware
Apple market themselves as being one of the safest providers around. But don’t get complacent because iOS users will also be vulnerable to attack this year.
However, there are several security measures that users can put into place to protect themselves against cybercrime:
• Install antivirus software and a firewall on your device
• Back up all of your files regularly using the cloud and remote storage
• Do not click on links that appear suspicious
• Make sure your passwords are strong
• Use encryption software to protect devices
• Enable remote wiping
• Keep devices somewhere thieves can’t get to them
As long as you follow these simple steps, you shouldn’t have a problem. Implement the measures above and be on the look out for the cybercrimes that are predicted for 2015 to make sure that you don’t become a victim.
