With the constant evolution of technology, cybercrime continues to grow. This global phenomenon jeopardizes our personal data, our financial security and sometimes even our privacy. But what exactly means cybercrime, why is it up, and above all, what can we do to remedy it?
In this article, we will explore these essential questions and propose concrete solutions to better protect ourselves against this scourge.
What is cybercrime?
Cybercrime includes all illegal activities carried out online. It can take many forms, such as:
- Identity theft: criminals obtain personal information to access bank accounts or contract credits in the name of their victim.
- Ransomware (ransomware) attacks : hackers block access to important files until a ransom is paid.
- Hamenating (phishing): crooks send fraudulent emails to encourage victims to provide their identifiers or banking information.
- Online fraud: scams include the sale of fictitious products, false websites or even sentimental scams.
Why is cybercrime up?
Several factors explain the constant increase in cybercrime:
- Increased digitization : with the digitalization of many aspects of our daily life (online payments, remote work, social networks, administrative formalities), cybercriminals have more opportunities to exploit flaws.
- The multiplication of connected objects : it is no longer only the desktop computer that allows internet access, but it is our phones, our televisions, our tablets, our alarm systems, our connected refrigerator, our vocal digital assistant, our home automation system, and many other objects that multiply entry points for hackers and crooks of the web.
- Sophistication of tools : hackers use increasingly advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to carry out targeted attacks.
- The lack of awareness : many people and businesses have not yet adopted robust cybersecurity practices.
Cybercrime affects everyone
A fairly common false idea is to believe that only large companies or rich people are concerned. In reality, everyone is a potential target.
- The elderly : they are often targeted by telephone scams or frauds by phishing, because they are less familiar with the dangers of digital. For example, criminals can pretend to be banking advisers or for tax agents demanding immediate payment under penalty of sanctions.
- Young adults (generation Z) : although being informed of technology, they are vulnerable to data violations on social networks. A recent case includes piracy of Instagram accounts to request money from their contacts.
- Parents and families : Children can download malicious applications or click on dangerous links, thus exhibiting the whole family. A family has, for example, given their computer infected with spy software after installing an allegedly free game.
- Professionals : With remote work, employees can, without knowing it, open the door to cyber attacks targeting their business. An employee has, for example, been the victim of a phishing attack which allowed hackers to access sensitive data from the company.
What can we do to prevent cybercrime?
Although cybercriminals are more and more clever, everyone can help prevent these attacks by adopting simple but effective measures. Here are some suggestions adapted to all age groups and skill levels.
1. Use cybersecurity tools
- Antivirus software : Install and update good protection software regularly to avoid viruses and malware.
- Password managers : Use tools to create and store strong and unique passwords for each account.
- VPN (virtual private network) : protect your connections, especially on public Wi-Fi networks, with a VPN to encrypt your data. The use of a VPN on Chrome or any other browser guarantees a quantified connection, making your data illegible in the event of interception by third parties.
2. Reduce the sharing of personal information
- On social networks : Limit the personal information that you share publicly. For example, avoid publishing your date of birth or address.
- Beware of suspect emails : Never click on links or do not download attachments from unknown sources.
3. Educate children and adolescents
Parents play an essential role in protecting their children:
- Awareness : Explain to children the risks linked to the use of the Internet, such as interactions with strangers or unsecured downloads.
- Parental controls : Install tools to monitor and limit children's online activities.
4. Young adults: educate their loved ones
The Z generation can play a key role by helping their parents and grandparents to recognize the warning signals of the scams:
- Family workshops : organize discussions to share simple tips, such as spot fraudulent emails or create secure passwords.
- Technical help : help your loved ones configure cybersecurity tools and update their devices.
5. Report the scams
- To the authorities : in the event of a cyber attack or a scam, report the incident to specialized platforms, such as government organizations to combat cybercrime.
- On social networks : share alerts to warn your friends and family.
6. Adopt good online practices
- Check the websites : Make sure that the sites on which you make payments have a secure connection (check the “HTTPS” in the URL).
- Be careful in the face of offers that are too beautiful to be true : crooks often attract their victims with incredible promotions or opportunities.
A collective responsibility
The fight against cybercrime is not only based on governments or businesses. Each individual has a role to play in preventing these attacks and protecting their digital life. By using cybersecurity tools, by educating our loved ones and adopting good online practices, we can significantly reduce risks and make the digital space safer for everyone. Let us never forget: vigilance is our best defense.
