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Cybersecurity Awareness: How to Protect Yourself from Cybercrime

Date Published:  April 27th, 2023Date Updated:  October 22, 2024

In today’s digital age, cybercriminals and darknet marketplaces pose serious threats to our online privacy and security.

Take for instance the hacking of Bank of America in February of 2024 where more than 55,000 customers’ data was exposed in a ransomware attack. Data gained by hackers included social security numbers, addresses, credit card information, and more. This emphasizes the importance of being careful with our sensitive data when using the internet. In this post, we’ll break down the mystery, explore common cybercrime examples and share tips at preventing cybercrime.

What is cybercrime?

Cybercrime refers to any illegal activity that involves computers, networks, or the internet. As technology advances, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. These cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in digital systems to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive information, or cause harm. Cybercrime can take many forms, including hacking, identity theft, phishing, malware attacks, and online scams.

Why it’s important to protect your information online

Our lives are increasingly digital. This raises the risk of our personal information being stolen, sold, or misused – greater than ever before. Cybercriminals can access our financial data, personal details, and even social media accounts, leading to financial identity theft and potential financial losses.

You might be startled by the following cybercrime statistics:

  • 47% of adults in the U.S. have had personal information exposed by cybercriminals
  • 1 in 3 homes with computers in the U.S. are infected with malicious software
  • 600k Facebook accounts are hacked every day
  • The cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $10.5 trillion in 2025

Cybersecurity awareness is a requirement if you’re on the web. It’s crucial to prioritize your digital safety and take proactive measures to prevent cyberattacks. While no one can completely avoid the possibility of cybercrime, having security and protection in place, and using safe browsing practices is an important step to preventing cybercrime.

Who are the victims of cybercrime?

Cybercrime is an ageless, genderless crime that knows no bounds or borders; it can happen to anyone, anywhere.

You may be wondering if cybersecurity tools and services are necessary.

Perhaps you’re familiar with phishing or already monitor your children’s screen time. Our policy is, it’s better to be safe than sorry. There’s more than one reason to keep yourself, your family, and your data protected.

According to the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), about 65% of Americans who go online have received at least one online scam offer. CompTIA reports that more than any other country in the world, the U.S. is the target of 46% of global cyberattacks.

If you’re younger, you may think because you grew up with the internet, you have excellent cybersecurity awareness. But consider the facts.

CISA found that about 44% of Millennials were victims of online crime in the last year, and about 31% of the generation shares passwords. This is more than any other age group.

In a recent study from the National Cybersecurity Alliance and CybSafe, 47% of Gen Z participants believed staying secure online was easy. But their group reported higher cybercrime victimization rates than older generations. Gen Z are the most likely victims of phishing and cyberbullying, according to the study. They also had the second-highest rates for identity theft and romance scams, with Millennials ranking first overall.

Who are cybercriminals and how do they steal your information?

Cybercriminals are individuals or groups who use technology to commit illegal activities. This often involves the intent of stealing sensitive information or causing harm.

They exploit the dark web, a part of the internet that can only be accessed using special software like the Tor browser. This offers anonymity and makes it an ideal place for criminal activities such as selling stolen data, illegal drugs, and more. They also take advantage of a lack of cybersecurity awareness in people and companies.

Hackers employ various tactics to obtain your personal information. We’ve listed a few examples of types of cybercrime.

Phishing emails: Deceptive emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, like banks or online services. They often contain links that direct you to fake websites, where you are asked to provide sensitive information such as login credentials or personal details.

Social engineering: This tactic involves manipulating people into divulging confidential information. For example, a hacker may impersonate a trusted individual, such as a coworker or family member, to trick you into sharing passwords or other sensitive data.

Exploiting security vulnerabilities: Cybercriminals are constantly searching for weaknesses in software and network security. When they find a vulnerability, they exploit it to gain unauthorized access to systems and steal valuable information.

Malware: Malicious software, or malware, can be disguised as seemingly harmless files or applications. Once installed on your device, it can steal your data, monitor your activity, or even take control of your system.

Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks: Hackers intercept communications between two parties, often on public Wi-Fi networks, to steal sensitive information or alter the contents of the messages.

Password attacks: Hackers use various methods to crack passwords, such as guessing common phrases, using a dictionary attack (trying every word in a dictionary), or employing brute force attacks (testing all possible combinations).

Understanding how these bad actors operate and how they can access your information is a crucial step in protecting your digital life and preventing hacking.

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How to find out if your information has been stolen or sold

One way to check if your data has been compromised is by using the website Have I Been Pwned. This site lets you enter your email address to see if it has been part of any known data breaches.

Another way to keep tabs on your digital information is to check your credit score – any significant changes could be a sign that your identity has been stolen.

If your information has been compromised, it’s essential to take immediate action by changing your passwords and securing your accounts.

Trending Cybercrime Examples

Automotive hacking: The threat to modern vehicles

Modern vehicles are not just machines; they’re advanced computer systems on wheels. As automotive technology evolves, so do the threats. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in vehicle software, potentially affecting controls, stealing data, or compromising safety features.

Specifically, hackers gaining control of the vehicle or using microphones to listen in on conversations are expected to rise with the use of automated vehicles. This emphasizes the need for automotive industries to prioritize cybersecurity, ensuring that drivers and their vehicles are protected.

Cyberespionage: A new age threat

States and corporations are not just battling on economic fronts but in cyberspace too. Cyberespionage involves the use of cyber tools to steal classified information or intellectual property, reinforcing the need for secure, encrypted channels of communication and data storage. During the Covid-19 pandemic, INTERPOL reported an increase in attacks targeting governments, major corporations, and essential infrastructure.

Cryptojacking: Profiting off your devices

This is when hackers install malware onto your computer to make your device mine cryptocurrency. To avoid cryptojacking, always be cautious of links in an email. Don’t click on links unless it comes from a source you can verify in-person that you completely trust.

How to protect yourself from cybercrime

To enhance your cybercrime prevention and safeguard your online privacy, consider these steps:

  • Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
  • Keep your software, operating system, and antivirus up-to-date.
  • Be cautious about the links you click and the attachments you open in emails.
  • Use safe browsing practices. For example, using a VPN for secure browsing, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Enable a firewall on your devices to prevent unauthorized access.

Taking these cybercrime prevention steps can help you control the risks associated with having your information stolen or sold. This can provide a solid foundation for maintaining your online security and preventing cybercrime.

Increased adoption of AI in cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence is playing a pivotal role in identifying and mitigating threats, providing proactive solutions to combat cyber threats and ensuring a secure online environment to prevent hacking. Trends in cybersecurity show a promising trajectory towards more robust and intelligent defense mechanisms through AI. More than 80% of IT decision-makers intend to invest in AI-powered cybersecurity within the next two years, according to a Blackberry study.

But this can be seen as a double-edged sword. While cybersecurity experts will work towards utilizing AI to stop these crimes, bad actors will also use AI to their advantage at perfecting their attacks. Some experts in the space have already tested and proven that large language models like ChatGPT have the capabilities to write malicious code.

How to report cybercrime

According to CISA, the first thing you should do is contact your local authorities to report cybercrime. You should also keep a record of any evidence of the crime and the events that occurred.

CISA also provides a list of organizations to contact if you’ve been the victim of a cybercrime:

  • us-cert.gov: Report computer or network vulnerabilities to US-CERT via the hotline (1-888-282-0870) or the website (www.us-cert.gov). To report phishing attempts to US-CERT, forward phishing emails or websites to US-CERT at [email protected].
  • ftc.gov: Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/complaint, if applicable. Report identity theft at www.IdentityTheft.gov, the government’s free, one-stop resource to help you report and recover from identity theft.
  • ic3.gov: If you are a victim of online crime, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Compliant Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
  • ssa.gov: This is for crimes involving financial identity theft and the use of your Social Security number. Visit ssa.gov or use the SSA fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.

How EarthLink Protect and EarthLink Protect+ can help

EarthLink offers a wide variety of online security products to help you prevent hacking. EarthLink has partnered with Norton to offer comprehensive cybersecurity packages, EarthLink Protect and EarthLink Protect+. Our premium online security features include:

  • Real-Time Threat Protection: Advanced Norton Device Security keeps online threats like ransomware, viruses, spyware, and malware at bay
  • Norton Secure VPN: Keep your connection private at home and on-the-go
  • Dark Web Monitoring: Norton LifeLock patrols the dark web and alerts you if your personal information is found on the dark web
  • LifeLock Identity Alert™ System: Receive instant updates when personal information such as your Social Security number, name, address, or date of birth are used on applications for credit and services that affect your credit
  • Million Dollar Protection™ Package: Get reimbursed for funds stolen and coverage for personal expenses up to the limit of your plan if your identity is stolen
  • Data Breach Notifications: Be prepared for corporate breaches, and get immediate notifications if your data is leaked in a large-scale attack
  • Parental Controls: Let your kids surf the internet safely and securely
  • PC SafeCam: Protect your computer’s webcam from spies, voyeurs, and criminals
  • Password Manager: Manage your online credentials in one secure spot

By investing in a cybersecurity package like EarthLink Protect or EarthLink Protect+, you can ensure that your digital life remains safe from cybercriminals and darknet marketplaces. Right now, you can try EarthLink Protect+ risk free for 30 days.

Conclusion

In this digital age, it’s never been more important to prioritize your online privacy and internet security.

By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to protect your information, you can enjoy the benefits of the digital age without the fear of cybercrime.

Maddy Hogan

Maddy Hogan

Maddy Hogan, a copywriter for EarthLink, is a New Englander by birth, raised in the South, and a Hoosier at heart. A graduate of Indiana University-Bloomington's Media School, she brings her unique voice and insights to publications like The Island Packet, The Cherokee Tribune, The Atlanta Business Chronicle, and The Marietta Daily Journal. When she's not writing, Maddy is passionate about traveling, art, reading, movies, well-timed memes, and her two kitties.

See all posts from Maddy Hogan.