After receiving multiple calls concerning hackers and the digital threats faced, we sort to gain some guidance on the subject from an industry expert, Evotel. As a result, the fibre company explained that when it came to cybercrimes, identity theft remained one of the largest risks to all South African citizens.
“Protecting your personal data will keep the average South African safe as hackers will go for low hanging fruit first – and there’s a lot of low hanging fruit,” explained Evotel.
In terms of safeguarding yourself from these criminals, Evotel further explained that regularly changing passwords and not writing them down was a good way to keep people out of your digital space.
However, Evotel stressed, “Do not use the same password for everything. With access to the internet a necessity, this can become tiring, but having one password means that if you are hacked, you are entirely at risk. Use numbers and characters in your passwords. This is a simple and effective way to increase the strength of your passwords.”
In addition to this, Evotel pointed out that Two-Factor Authentication is an additional step that an internet user can take to ensure their digital space isn’t infiltrated.
“Two-Factor Authentication is software that requires you to confirm your own internet activity via your phone or other devices. If the activity isn’t you, you can stop it in the moment. This is the same as when your bank sends you a one-time password (OTP) to sign into your banking profile.”
According to the fibre provider, be careful of the websites you use. Newcastillians need to ensure the website they are visiting is secure (look for the lock symbol where the URL is). This way you keep yourself safe. “Unsecure websites can be dangerous to unprotected computers. People should also be wary of clicking on ads and links on these websites as they can open you up to attack.”
Then there are of course opportunistic emails presented as legitimate documents. “If you don’t know where the email is from or if it looks suspicious, don’t open it. This is because the email could infect your device and allow hackers into your space.
“Hackers love to exploit the easiest ways in and often our own clicks open the door. Be aware of where you are on the internet and what you’re clicking on,” affirmed Evotel.
Speaking to the fibre company, we asked what programs they would recommend for safeguarding oneself from hackers. With a formidable knowledge of the digital world, Evotel recommended both free and paid-for products to protect your data and personal information.
According to the company, at the most basic level, standard Windows Defender, if kept regularly updated, is a good way to keep yourself safe and it comes standard with your Microsoft PC at no cost. “Updates are also free to do,” noted Evotel.
Additionally, they highlighted that Avast was also a good free-to-use antivirus software that’ll keep most things out.
“Any of the advertised, paid for antivirus software available will do the trick as well, though names like Norton Antivirus and Kaspersky are reputable within the space,” added Evotel.
However, most importantly, while software can keep you safe, Evotel stressed that educating yourself will always be the lifesaver in terms of cybersecurity. “If you know what you’re dealing with, you know how to handle it.”
While the above-mentioned is pivotal to protecting your data, what should one do if a hacker does gain access to your world?
When you think or know that you have been hacked, Evotel recommends that you must immediately change all your passwords. “By changing your passwords, you are making it harder for your PC to be reinfected,” said the company.
Furthermore, Evotel suggested that Newcastillians should often run their antivirus software. “This will check for any malware implanted on your device. It will then isolate this malware to prevent further damage.”
Evotel goes on to say that warning friends and family when you have been hacked, is imperative. “Letting them know you’ve been hacked means they’ll be on the lookout for suspicious activity as well.”
The company also recommended that Newcastillians immediately contact their bank to ensure their finances are secure. “In the most extreme cases a full wipe and reinstallation of the device may be necessary, but there are other steps that can be taken first. Forewarned is forearmed,” concluded Evotel.
With all this information in mind, be sure to leave your thoughts in the comment section below and thanks to Evotel for giving us the rundown.
