Whether you have a blog, a business website, or an eCommerce site, you will need to do everything you can to protect your intellectual property and your visitors. If you shop online, you might want to keep up with the latest inventions of cybercriminals to rid you of your hard-earned money. Every year there are new online threats developed by hackers that create misery for millions around the world. If you would like to avoid being conned or hacked, you need to be a step ahead, and protect your online accounts, PayPal money, and personal information. Below you will find a list of online threats that are likely to appear later this year.
1. Company Data Breaches
It is likely that many companies in the UK will tighten their budgets, and consequently, their data security will be compromised. Systems that are not regularly updated will become more vulnerable, therefore, it is likely that we will see even more data breaches in the United Kingdom in 2018. From payment information to personal data, there are several customer details held by companies. While the updated GDPR legislation applies to most companies operating online, not all of them can keep up with the technology and hackers.
2. Ransomware Entering the Cloud
While working on the cloud has been a safe option for most companies up to now, it is possible that this year hackers will figure their way into the cloud and get into company accounts. iCloud is the safest option for companies, but those using Microsoft software often have Google Drive installed for collaboration and sharing files. The amount of sensitive data stored on cloud accounts is huge, so it is important that companies look out for vulnerabilities, such as ransomware and malware before cybercriminals find these. A professional check-up and regular maintenance can help prevent issues.
3. Artificial Intelligence as a Weapon
Experts say that we are not far from the time when artificial intelligence can be used as a weapon. A new type of warfare can emerge, and it can mean governments’ servers will be attacked, or people in high positions will be exposed, and even elections hacked. Artificial intelligence can make simple decisions now, but it will soon be able to work on a more complex strategy, and can damage economies, states, and even regions.
4. Taking Over Social Media Accounts
Artificial intelligence and hackers might take over people’s social media accounts without them knowing it. While Facebook and Twitter have recently invested a lot of money in their security and privacy protection, it might not be enough. It has been stated that the past few US elections were won because of social media. The influence of people should not be underestimated. Therefore, it is likely that people will use fake accounts or use neglected ones to try to influence elections and post malicious information.
5. Website Security Threats
Websites are still not safe from hackers. If you have an outdated web design, you should talk to a professional to find a safer and more appealing theme for your business. A stunning Website Design without the security features and data protection measures cannot be successful in search engines, and is more likely to be attacked by hackers. If you look around the internet, you will find plenty of companies using six-year-old templates that are vulnerable to attackers.
6. Cryptocurrency Security Threats
We are living in the world of cashless economy. We pay by card, and have our card details stored online, as well as on our social media account if we gamble or pay for Facebook ads and services. Some of us have online Bitcoin accounts, and with the rising value of the cryptocurrency, it is likely that companies are going to get attacked. As Bitcoin and other virtual currencies are not regulated by financial bodies, there are no minimum safety requirements that apply to companies.
7. Sensitive Information through the Internet of Things
When mentioning cyber attacks, most of us think about computers and laptops. However, it is important to note that we are connected to the internet in several new ways now. From smart homes to gaming consoles, smart TVs and our Netflix account streaming, to our tablet or phone, and our car’s built-in WiFi — all of which pose new vulnerabilities with every connection. Your information is stored on all these devices, and if your car is hacked, your accounts are exposed to criminals.
8. Fake Accounts and Industrial Scale Trolling
Cybercriminals in recent years have developed methods to create fake accounts on a massive scale. Your personal accounts might be cloned and duplicated without you knowing. Some personal accounts can be used for trolling. A company’s reputation could be at risk if it doesn’t monitor online reviews and ratings. It is now possible to use proxies to create hundreds of accounts on review sites and post multiple reviews on each of them on a company’s pages to bring down share prices and win big in the stock market.
9. Social Media App Vulnerability
While most websites are now compliant with data protection regulations, the same isn’t true when it comes to social media and apps. Those unverified apps on your phone are more likely to carry malware, spyware and viruses than a website. You need to make sure that you get the right protection for your mobile devices, as well as your laptop and computer, so you can make the most out of your free time without putting yourself at risk.
When it comes to inventing new ways of compromising personal, corporate, and national security, cybercriminals are usually one step ahead. While the above threats are hardly preventable, you can do something today to improve your website, change your habits, and look out for vulnerabilities. While it might seem like a waste of time, you should check the privacy policy of all your accounts, and make sure all the companies you deal with have strict guidelines on handling your personal and financial details. Focus on the latest technology, such as mobile communication, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things.
