Our devices have become an integral part of daily life, storing a wealth of personal and sensitive information. With increased connectivity comes the looming threat of cyberattacks. JUSTICE OKAMGBA writes on how to prevent these attacks
In an era of increasing digital threats, safeguarding your devices has become more imperative than ever.
A recent report by Kaspersky indicated that Nigeria recorded the second-highest number of cyberattacks in Africa.
Positioned at 50th globally for online threats, Nigeria stood just behind Kenya, ranked 35th globally, with South Africa completing the top three at 82nd globally.
The data from the Kaspersky Security Network underscored the escalating prominence of these countries as focal points for cyber threats.
Experts point out that criminal attacks were primarily motivated by financial gains, highlighting the evolving tactics and tools employed by cyber threat actors to breach security measures.
As technology advances, cybercriminals adapt, utilising malicious software and sophisticated phishing schemes.
“Identity theft is another big way they exploit people; they steal personal information to impersonate individuals, access their accounts, or commit fraudulent activities by assuming an entirely false identity,” a Cybersecurity Expert at Covenda AI, Faidat Abdullahi, stated in a note to The PUNCH.
She said, “They could also use malware attacks directly on systems by using malicious software to infiltrate systems, gain unauthorised access, steal data, or disrupt operations.”
In the face of these evolving threats, adopting proactive measures is imperative for users to protect their devices and personal information from falling into the wrong hands.
Keep software updated
Regularly updating your device’s software is a simple yet powerful defence against cyberattacks. Operating systems and applications release updates to patch vulnerabilities and enhance security.
Neglecting these updates can expose your device to potential threats. Enable automatic updates when possible to ensure your defences are always current.
For example, Apple recently released a security update, underscoring its commitment to customer protection.
Apple follows a policy of not disclosing, discussing or confirming security issues until investigations are complete and patches or releases are generally available, reinforcing their dedication to addressing and resolving potential threats promptly.
Employ robust password practices
Passwords act as the first line of defence against unauthorised access. Ensure your passwords are strong, combining a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.
Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or names. Consider implementing two-factor authentication for an additional layer of security.
“It is essential that we pay attention to vulnerabilities that could be exploited. We need to be aware of cyber threats and not become susceptible to scams and phishing attempts.
“Having weak passwords that can be quickly figured out or poorly managing passwords by disclosing them to people or unsafely storing passwords makes it easier for fraudsters to compromise accounts,” Abdullahi said.
In a concerning trend, Kaspersky reported a significant 147 per cent surge in Trojan-PSW (Password Stealing Ware) detections in Nigeria during the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021.
This malware, designed to pilfer passwords and other account information, poses a serious threat by providing attackers access to corporate networks and sensitive data.
A cybersecurity expert at SAP, Chukwuka Madumere, explained the importance of maintaining robust passwords for both smartphones and computers.
He advised against sharing passwords to prevent unauthorised access, underlining the critical role password security plays in safeguarding personal and sensitive information.
Exercise caution with emails and links
Experts warned that phishing attacks rely on the psychology of fear to achieve their objectives. By creating a sense of urgency, cybercriminals push individuals to act impulsively, bypassing their usual scepticism.
Whether it is a fake cryptocurrency investment promising extraordinary returns or a pandemic-related email claiming to provide crucial information, these attackers prey on emotions to compromise the security of unsuspecting individuals.
Experts advised device users to always verify the legitimacy of emails, messages, or investment opportunities. Be cautious of unsolicited communications, especially those urging immediate action.
Utilise secure communication channels for sensitive information. Avoid sharing personal details through unsecured platforms and be wary of unexpected requests for sensitive data.
Secure your Wi-Fi network
Abdullahi emphasised the significance of a secure Wi-Fi network in shielding devices from external threats. According to the cybersecurity expert, employ a robust, unique password, activate WPA3 encryption if possible, and modify default router login credentials. Keep your router’s firmware up to date to mitigate potential security vulnerabilities.
She also warned against using unsecured Wi-Fi networks or public computers, highlighting the heightened risk of fraudsters intercepting data. Regularly updating systems and software is crucial, as outdated software may harbour known security flaws exploitable by cybercriminals.
Install antivirus, anti-malware software
Unfortunately, many Nigerians do not subscribe to premium anti-malware.
Equipping your devices with good antivirus and anti-malware software provides an extra shield against malicious attacks.
Regularly scan your device for potential threats, and schedule automatic scans to catch any lurking dangers.
Prevent unauthorised access
Indeed, taking preventive measures can thwart unauthorised access and prevent the download of viruses when online.
In a note to customers, FirstBank of Nigeria said, “When using FirstBank Online Banking, always check the padlock symbol and site certificate. Double-click the padlock at the bottom of your browser to verify that the site certificate belongs to FirstBank of Nigeria Plc.”
The bank noted that that precaution ensured “you’re not entering your details on a fraudulent or ‘fake’ site, enhancing the security of your online banking experience”.
Backup your data
Cyberattacks come in various forms, and some may result in data loss. Whether it’s due to a malware infection, hardware failure, or accidental deletion, the loss of critical data can be catastrophic.
Having regular backups ensures that even if your data is compromised, you can restore it without succumbing to the demands of attackers. It serves as a reliable fallback, minimising the impact of ransomware incidents.
Educate yourself on cyber threats
According to Madumere, addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including increased cybersecurity awareness, education on the legal and ethical implications of such activities, and law enforcement efforts to dismantle these organised fraud networks.
It is crucial to promote legitimate avenues for skill development and financial success to deter individuals from pursuing a path that leads to criminal behaviour.
Keep abreast of the latest tactics employed by cybercriminals and educate yourself on best practices for online safety. Awareness serves as a powerful weapon in the ongoing fight against cyberattacks.
Maintaining awareness, staying vigilant, and adopting proactive cybersecurity measures are pivotal in safeguarding against the threat of cyber fraud.
As technology continues to advance, so must our commitment to securing our digital lives. Protecting your devices from cyberattacks requires a proactive and vigilant approach.
By adopting these strategies and staying informed about emerging threats, you can fortify your digital defences and navigate the online landscape with confidence.
Remember, in the realm of cybersecurity, knowledge is power, and proactive measures are your strongest allies.
