Cybercrime is on the rise: what can be done to address it?

Francis

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 is cybercrime, why is it on the rise, and most importantly, what can we do to stop 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 encompasses all illegal activities conducted online. It can take many forms, such as:

Identity theft: criminals obtain personal information to access bank accounts or take out loans in the name of their victim.
Ransomware attacks : hackers block access to important files until a ransom is paid.
Phishing : scammers send fraudulent emails to trick victims into providing their login credentials or banking information.
Online fraud: scams include the sale of fictitious products, fake websites, and romance scams.

Why is cybercrime on the rise?

Several factors explain the steady increase in cybercrime:

Increased digitization : With the digitization of many aspects of our daily lives (online payments, remote work, social networks, administrative formalities), cybercriminals have more opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities.
The proliferation of connected objects : it is no longer just the desktop computer that allows access to the Internet, but our phones, our televisions, our tablets, our alarm systems, our connected refrigerator, our digital voice assistant, our home automation system, and many other objects that multiply the points of entry for hackers and web scammers.
The sophistication of the tools : Hackers are using increasingly advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to carry out targeted attacks.
Lack of awareness : Many people and businesses have not yet adopted robust cybersecurity practices.

Cybercrime affects everyone

A common misconception is that only large corporations or wealthy individuals are affected. In reality, everyone is a potential target.

Older people : They are often targeted by phone scams or phishing fraud because they are less familiar with the dangers of the digital world. For example, criminals may impersonate bank advisors or tax officials demanding immediate payment under threat of penalties.
Young adults (Generation Z) : Although tech-savvy, they are vulnerable to data breaches on social media. A recent case involved hacking Instagram accounts to solicit money from their contacts.
Parents and families : Children can download malicious applications or click on dangerous links, thus exposing the entire family. One family, for example, had their computer infected with spyware after installing a supposedly free game.
Professionals : With remote work, employees can unknowingly open the door to cyberattacks targeting their company. One employee, for example, was the victim of a phishing attack that allowed hackers to access sensitive company data.

What can we do to prevent cybercrime?

Although cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, everyone can help prevent these attacks by adopting simple yet effective measures. Here are some suggestions suitable for all age groups and skill levels.

1. Use cybersecurity tools

Antivirus software : Install and regularly update good protection software to avoid viruses and malware.
Password managers : Use tools to create and store strong, 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. Using a VPN on Chrome or any other browser guarantees an encrypted connection, making your data unreadable if intercepted by third parties.

2. Reduce the sharing of personal information

On social media : Limit the personal information you share publicly. For example, avoid posting your date of birth or address.
Beware of suspicious emails : Never click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.

3. Educating children and adolescents

Parents play a vital role in protecting their children:

Awareness : Explain to children the risks associated with using 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: educating their loved ones

Generation Z can play a key role in helping their parents and grandparents recognize the warning signs of scams:

Family workshops : Organize discussions to share simple tips, such as spotting fraudulent emails or creating secure passwords.
Technical assistance : Help your loved ones set up cybersecurity tools and update their devices.

5. Report scams

To the authorities : In case of a cyberattack or scam, report the incident to specialized platforms, such as government agencies fighting cybercrime.
On social media : Share alerts to warn your friends and family.

6. Adopt good online practices

Check websites : Make sure that the sites where you make payments have a secure connection (check for “https” in the URL).
Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true : Scammers often lure their victims with incredible promotions or opportunities.

A collective responsibility

The fight against cybercrime doesn't rest solely on governments or businesses. Every individual has a role to play in preventing these attacks and protecting their digital lives. By using cybersecurity tools, educating our loved ones, and adopting good online practices, we can significantly reduce risks and make the digital space safer for everyone. Let's never forget: vigilance is our best defense.