In the age of technology, people and computers are starting to become one. And as computers are getting smarter, criminals are advancing as well, and the Healthcare industry is a primary target.
Out of 7+ billion people in the world, a total of 4.66 billion people are active internet users. Which means the safety of private information is being tested now more than ever before. Although, computers have fire walls and basic security features; it is up to users to take the extra steps in securing their internet safety. That entails, having more advanced passwords, visiting only certified safe sites, and being smart via emails. In the movies, we see cyber-attacks as high level “hackers” infiltrating government organizations. Even though that has happened before, it is not the reality for everyday people. By advancing your internet knowledge, users will be able to protect themselves from these cyber-criminals.
There are endless ways cyber-criminals can expose private information. One of the most popular methods however is “Phishing”. Phishing in this sense is a form of spam emails that have a more malicious intent. Attackers are trying to “Phish” (think fishing) for your personal information. An example would be a cyber-criminal pretending to be someone you may know; such as a colleague, boss, or friends/family. The most noticeable way to spot phishing emails is to look at the email address. If its from a non-recognizable address, then its likely a phishing email. See below how the email address does not match the name of the account and it is not actually from their correct address.
Another way user can notice they are being set up is by looking at the writing style. Cyber-criminals like to keep emails short and sweet; they want to get to the main point quickly. You can see how the email is very brief.
By noticing the hints of phishing emails, people will be able to protect themselves. In the age where our phones and laptops are within an arm’s reach, we need to be smarter on the internet. Everyone believes that they aren’t at risk of cyber-attacks until they become a victim themself.
Learning about phishing emails is just the first step of the internet safety ladder. Once you see this acted out in the real world, your eye’s will be open, and you’ll see just how vulnerable everyone truly is. The internet can be our best friend just as much as our worst enemy. That’s why it is an essential part to your education. In short, users must take the reasonability to protect their private information from cyber-criminals.
Recent Comments