Cyber theft is when a hacker (or group of hackers) gains access to your computer or other devices, such as phones and tablets, to steal information. As you might guess, cyber theft doesn’t work only on computers; it can happen on any device connected to the cloud.
Cyber thieves don’t just take your money—they also take other valuable data, such as passwords and credit card numbers. Once they have this information, they can use it for their financial gain or sell it on the black market to other criminals.
The only way to protect oneself from cyber theft is to implement cloud security measures. These measures range from securing routers and passwords and managing access to the computers.
How Dangerous Is Cyber Theft?
Cyber theft may seem like a remote possibility, but it’s more common than you think. According to the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), losses from cyber fraud totaled $1 billion in 2017 alone and are expected to grow by 20% each year through 2021.
Among all the industries, the banking industry is considered one of the most vulnerable because of its large volume of personal information. The healthcare industry is another primary target because medical records contain sensitive personal information that can be used for medical identity theft and financial scams.
Steps to Ensure Cloud Security
Every individual is at risk of some type of cyber security breach. Hackers are always looking for weak passwords and easy access to routers to break in and steal sensitive information. But, with a few measures, you can ensure your safety,
Regularly Change Passwords
To prevent cyber identity theft, it’s essential to change your passwords regularly. Experts recommend changing them every 90 days or even more frequently. Another option is to have a different password for each account so that hackers face more challenges if they try to break into all of them at once. Be sure not to write down your passwords or share them with anyone else!
Install Firewalls, Ant-Virus Software, and Anti-spyware on Your Computer
A firewall protects your computer and the network from unauthorized access. It blocks access to certain parts of your system, making it difficult for hackers to break in and steal data.
Antivirus software protects against viruses, malware, and spyware. Look for antivirus software that includes anti-spyware capabilities as well as firewall protection. Antivirus software can also scan your computer for suspicious files spying on you.
Anti-spyware is a type of software designed to remove applications from your computer that track what you do online and may result in identity theft or other cybercrimes such as credit card fraud.
Be Sure Your Network Port Is Password Protected
You should ensure your network port is password protected to reduce cloud theft.
A network port is a way for your computer or mobile device to communicate with others.
Depending on whether the network port is open or closed, data can either flow through it (an available port), or it will be blocked (a secure port). A user may choose not to protect their home router so that they can share access between multiple devices within their home or office building.
However, this leaves them vulnerable and susceptible to being hacked by outside parties looking for valuable information stored on those computers connected through this shared connection.
Position Your Router to Minimize the Likelihood of Unauthorized Access to It
You can place the router in a location that is not easily accessible to others or position it where it will be less likely to be tampered with. Avoid placing the router near windows or outside walls, as it’s relatively easy for someone to access the device through those openings. Also, avoid placing the router near other electronic devices that could cause interference (such as cordless phones).
Encrypt Files Containing Sensitive Information
Encrypt files by using software that is specifically designed for this purpose. Use a strong password for encryption. Different file encryption methods exist, so it’s essential to use the right one for your needs.
Encrypting sensitive files can be a good precautionary measure, but you need to make sure that the method used by your organization and IT team doesn’t prevent users from accessing the data they need when they need it.
Limit Access to File Servers to Authorized Individuals Only
Limit access to file servers and other computer systems to authorized individuals only. This includes using password-protected access and restricting physical access to the equipment.
For example, a server that stores sensitive information may be kept in a locked room with limited access. The people authorized to enter this room should have their keys or cards that allow them entry, which can be revoked if they leave the company or move on from a specific job function.
Investment in Security to Protect Your Business
Security should not be a one-off investment. It is an ongoing process that needs to be integrated into all systems of an organization. Cybercriminals will continue to evolve and change their methods, so businesses need to stay ahead of the game by investing in the latest security technologies and threats.
You should set aside some funds each year for preventative measures such as hiring experienced IT professionals, training employees on how not to fall prey to phishing scams, updating software regularly, installing firewalls and antivirus software, reviewing data management policies periodically, etc.
What to Do When Cyber Theft Happens
When you first realize that you’ve been hacked, try to stay calm and let the thief have their fun for as long as possible. This will help them steal more information from you (and a lot of it) before they get caught, which is good for you! After they’re done with your computer and phone, they’ll probably move to someone else’s computer and telephone. If there are no other computers or phones around, they’ll go back home and steal their stuff.
In any case, do not panic! Change all of your passwords immediately so that no one can get into any of your accounts again—ever! Contact your bank and local cyber police station immediately after changing your password(s). Do not wait—the cyber police will be able to track down where the thief went when he logged off with his stolen credentials in hand.
Conclusion
While there’s no way to guarantee you won’t be hacked, you can minimize your targeted chances by applying the above tips and using common sense. And if you do find yourself in this unfortunate situation, make sure to contact the proper authorities.
It’s essential to stay safe online, especially in recent data breaches. It may seem like a lot of work, but it’s not impossible—and it’ll make you feel good knowing you’ve taken some steps to be better protected against cyber theft.
