In 2024, we spend a large portion of our time online. We use the internet for work, for building our businesses, for connecting with family and friends, for entertainment, for managing our lives, and so much more.
With more and more time spent online comes an increased risk to our safety, security, and general well-being that shouldn’t be overlooked. To get a better understanding of what we mean, here are five online threats to look out for in the modern age.
Identity Theft
Many of us are shameless (and mindless) when it comes to sharing our personal information online. We tag our location in our Instagram posts, tell Facebook where we work, and plug our banking details into online stores.
Little do we know that any information about us online could be used against us in crimes like identity theft. Being aware and cautious about what we choose to share online is important if we want to protect our details and identity. DeleteMe is a great tool for helping to remove any trace of your data from the internet if you decide you don’t want it there anymore.
Phishing Attacks
When someone tries to steal sensitive information by pretending to be someone else, it’s known as “phishing.” A common example of this is fake emails or text messages sent from someone pretending to be your banking institution, asking for sensitive data like your account numbers.
Unfortunately, this type of cyber-attack is incredibly common, and cybercriminals are getting better and better at making these messages look realistic. It’s important to be alert and on your guard when it comes to providing your details to anyone. Use your intuition and a heavy dose of skepticism before typing out any important data.
Ransomware
Hackers have gotten increasingly skilled at getting what they want. Ransomware is exactly what it sounds like – when a cybercriminal takes your computer “hostage” by blocking it until a ransom (usually a sum of money) is paid.
Protecting yourself against ransomware is important, and it also involves being alert and a little skeptical online. Be careful not to click on any suspicious links sent to you, and make sure that all your data is regularly backed up. This is one of those cases where having really good antivirus software installed on all your devices can truly be a lifesaver, so don’t underestimate the value of investing in cybersecurity.
Deepfakes
Most recently, thanks to the rise of AI and other technology, internet users have needed to become hyperaware and cautious of deepfakes. A deepfake is an artificial video or image where the subject has been altered to look and sound like someone they’re not.
These videos are often used to spread misinformation, threaten or manipulate people and businesses, and convince recipients that someone they know is asking for their information or for help. If you receive any videos or images that don’t seem right, try not to panic and rather exercise some investigative skills. Remember that you can’t believe everything you see – especially online.