What is computer hacking?

Hackers, the individuals who engage in this activity, exploit vulnerabilities in software, hardware, or human behaviour to gain entry into systems they do not have permission to access. Their motives can vary widely, from personal financial gain and stealing sensitive information to demonstrating system weaknesses and cyber espionage.

The most common type of hacking reported to Report Fraud is the hacking of email and social media accounts.

The impact of hacking

Hacking can have severe consequences, including:

  • 1

    Financial loss from stolen credit card information or fraudulent transactions.

  • 2

    Loss of personal and sensitive data, leading to identity theft.

  • 3

    Damage to reputation for businesses and individuals.

  • 4

    Disruption of services and operations.

  • 5

    Legal repercussions for organisations found to be negligent in protecting their systems.

Understanding what hacking is and the forms it can take is the first step towards safeguarding yourself and your digital assets from these threats.

Protect yourself against hacking

In today's digital age, hacking poses a significant threat to individuals and organisations alike.

Hackers exploit vulnerabilities to steal personal information, financial data, and even identities. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of hacking, follow these essential guidelines.

Advice for individuals:

Your email account is where you keep your most personal and financial information.

  • If a cyber criminal accesses your email, they could: access your other online accounts using the 'forgot password' feature (which often sends you an email).
  • Access personal or business information and use this to defraud you or people you know.

Two actions to instantly help protect your email

Action 1: Passwords

  1. Your email password should be strong and different from all your other passwords.
  2. Combining 3 random words that each mean something to you is a great way to create a password that is easy to remember but hard to crack.
  3. Do not use words that can be guessed (like your pet's name). You can include numbers and symbols if needed. For example, “Hippo!PizzaRocket1”

Action 2: Turn on 2-Step Verification (2SV) for your email

  1. 2-Step Verification (2SV) gives you twice the protection so even if cyber criminals have your password, they can't access your email. 2SV works by asking for more information to prove your identity.
  2. For example, getting a code sent to your phone when you sign in using a new device or change settings such as your password. You won't be asked for this every time you check your email.

Reporting Cyber crime

If you believe you have been a victim of hacking, report it immediately to Report Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for cyber crime and fraud, or call 0300 123 2040. Timely reporting can help prevent further damage and assist in catching cyber criminals.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to hacking. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritise your digital security.

Tags

Cyber crime