District Tech Consulting has developed a list of key cyber-shopping best practices that everyone should follow to stay safe this holiday season.
WannaCry Virus
In May, there was a global cyberattack, called WannaCry, which paralyzed computers in over 150 countries. While a kill switch has been activated for the major variant of the virus, there are other variants being circulated that have no kill switch.
The WannaCry virus is a type of malware called ransomware. It comes via email or through suspicious websites. Once you click the link, open the email attachment, or visit the infected website, the WannaCry virus goes through your computer and your network connections to all network files and locks or encrypts them so that you are not able to access them. The most frightening aspect of the WannaCry virus is that once it's on a network, it specifically seeks out Windows machines that have not received the proper patch.
How Do I Recognize a Phishing Email?
Phishing emails are typically fraudulent email messages which appear to come from legitimate sources (such as your university, Internet service provider, or your bank). These messages typically direct you to a spoofed website or attempt to get you to divulge private information (passphrase, credit card information, or other sensitive information). The goal of these scammers is to obtain this information and sell it for financial gain. #TechTips #Security #Phishing
Unsecure Wi-Fi
Out of thin air, your sensitive information can be stolen when connected to unsecure Wi-Fi.
Have you ever connected to the free Wi-Fi network at your favorite coffee shop, a hotel, or at an airport? We've all done it. While free Wi-Fi is conveniently everywhere these days, it doesn't mean the connection is secure. And if it's not secure, you, your device, your web browsing, and your sensitive information are at risk.
#wifi #security
