Three Tips to Protect Yourself from Social Engineering Hacks
What exactly are they? Simply put, social engineering hacks take advantage of your trust to access your private network or steal critical data. While they may seem like a plotline from a movie, social engineering hacks are actually quite common. Here are some measures you can take to protect yourself and your company.
1. Be Wary of Emails and Phone Calls From Strangers
One of the most popular ways for hackers to get access to your systems is to pose as someone they are not. They may act as a bank customer care representative or an IT professional from your firm. They will next try to trick you into disclosing sensitive information or installing dangerous malware on your machine.
Be wary of emails or phone calls from strangers, even if they appear authentic at first glance. If you’re ever in question, hang up and contact the individual again from a number you know is correct.
2. Don’t Click on Links or Download Attachments From Unknown Sources
Hackers can also obtain access to your machine by sending you emails with harmful links or attachments. They may impersonate a friend or family member and claim to have sent you a photo or document. They will gain access to your system if you visit the malicious link or download the files they’ve sent. Take extreme caution when checking out email attachments sent by others, even if they appear to come from someone you know and trust.
3. Keep Your Systems Up-to-Date
Keeping all of your software up to date is one of the best methods to keep your PC safe from hackers. This includes your operating system, web browser, antivirus software, and any other software on your computer. Hackers are constantly devising new ways to exploit security flaws, so you must have the most recent patches installed in order to plug any potential gaps in your system’s defenses.
Takeaway
Social engineering hacks are becoming increasingly common as hackers target individuals and businesses. There are, nevertheless, some precautions you can take. Be vigilant of strangers’ emails and phone calls, avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources, and keep your systems updated with the latest security updates. By following these basic guidelines, you may help protect yourself—and your data—from danger.