Increasingly creative hackers and their sophisticated methods: do we know how to recognize the first signs of alarm?

Growing threats include attacks on supply chains, the evolution of ransomware attacks, and the misuse of AI technology.

Data theft has become a ubiquitous threat in today’s digital world, endangering the security and privacy of individuals, companies and government institutions. According to statistics, more than 52% of all data breach incidents involve users’ personal data. The channels through which thefts most often occur are on social networks, through e-mails (phishing), on online stores and registration websites. Citizens often make the mistake of using weak or repeated passwords on multiple accounts, exposing themselves to danger. Also, clicking on suspicious links or opening attachments from unknown senders can lead to the installation of malicious software.

Early signs of data theft include unauthorized transactions, unexpected emails or messages requiring password changes, loss of access to online accounts, suspicious activity alerts, and unexpected social media activity. If you find that you can’t access one of your online accounts because the password has been changed without your knowledge, it’s a clear sign that you could be a victim of data theft. To prevent data loss, citizens should use password managers, two-factor authentication, and security software. Password managers help create, store and manage strong, unique passwords for all online accounts. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security when logging into online accounts by requiring not only a password, but also another form of identity verification, such as a code sent via SMS or through an authentication app. Security software can help protect against malware and viruses, and regular software and operating system updates can correct security vulnerabilities.

Additional advice includes using secure networks, especially avoiding unsecured Wi-Fi networks for accessing sensitive accounts or conducting financial transactions, and being careful when sharing information online. Hackers use sophisticated methods such as crypto-mining, AI-powered phishing attacks, lateral movement within networks, attacks on IoT devices and creation of deepfake content. Protection against such methods requires a combination of user awareness, regular software updates, use of security tools, and constant education about new threats. Growing threats include attacks on supply chains, the evolution of ransomware attacks, and the misuse of AI technology. Attacks on supply chains are becoming more sophisticated and common, while ransomware attacks are adopting new tactics such as “double extortion,” where attackers steal data before encrypting the victim’s system and demand a ransom for not releasing the data. Abuse of AI technology allows hackers to automate and optimize their attacks, making them more effective and harder to detect.

Protecting against these threats requires a continued focus on security practices, education of employees about the threats, and collaboration between industry and regulators to ensure the best possible defense. Hackers are increasingly using AI tools to optimize their attacks, further emphasizing the need for sophisticated security measures. Users must be aware of these threats and take appropriate steps to protect their data and online identity.