Staying safe online: Steps to prevent cyberattacks

In today's digital era, where vast amounts of data are transferred every second, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical concern for individuals, businesses, and governments. From sending crucial business emails, making online transactions, and checking social media, we continuously share and receive data.
Each of these interactions exposes our information to potential risks. In this context, cybersecurity becomes essential as the digital safeguard for our personal and professional data.

With its technological advancements and increasing internet adoption, the Philippines presents an ideal landscape for digital interactions. However, this rapid growth also attracts cybersecurity threats. This technological adaptability has, unfortunately, become a fertile ground for cybercriminals.

In recent years, the country has witnessed an uptick in cybersecurity incidents. The challenges have been multifaceted, from sophisticated hacking attempts to large-scale data breaches.

In April, The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said it had recorded about 3,000 high-level cyberattacks in the Philippines from 2020 to 2022. Almost half of these attacks targeted government agencies and emergency response teams. The DICT also monitored 54,000 cyber threats during the same period.

"It's not a matter of if, but a matter of when" is often used in the context of cybersecurity to mean that it is inevitable that a cyberattack will happen. This is because the number and sophistication of cyberattacks are constantly increasing, and no organization is immune.

The history of hacking can be traced to the early days of computers. In the 1960s, hackers were primarily interested in learning how computers worked and finding new ways to use them. However, in the 1980s, hacking began to be used for malicious purposes, such as stealing data and launching attacks on computer systems.

Hackers use a variety of methods to attack industries and individuals.

Here's some of the primary threats and recommended defenses:

Phishing

Phishing remains a top concern, with cybercriminals masquerading as reputable entities via emails and texts. Victims often find themselves redirected to fake websites where their personal data becomes easy pickings for attackers.

Experts advise the public to be wary of unsolicited communications and to validate URLs before clicking. Additionally, if an email unexpectedly requests personal or financial information, verifying its legitimacy by contacting the alleged sender directly, using a different communication channel, is crucial.

Malware

Malware, malicious software designed to damage devices or steal user data, continues its disruptive course. Infections can occur from various sources, including dubious downloads, malicious links, and compromised email attachments. As a defense, it's recommended to maintain updated software versions, employ firewalls, utilize reputable antivirus solutions, and be cautious about the origins of downloaded files.

Zero-Day Attacks

Zero-Day Attacks exploit vulnerabilities in software that developers haven't yet addressed. Due to their unpredictable nature, they present significant challenges. Nevertheless, consistent software updates, which often contain critical security patches, along with the use of firewalls and antivirus software, can mitigate risks. A conservative approach to internet browsing is also advised, emphasizing trusted websites and download sources.

Denial-of-Service Attacks

In Denial-of-Service Attacks, cybercriminals aim to incapacitate targeted websites or servers. Attackers send large amounts of data to overload the target website or server, making it crawl to a halt. To tackle this, experts recommend transitioning to cloud-based solutions, given their inherent robustness against such attacks. A solid contingency strategy also ensures service continuity after a successful attack.

Ransomware

Lastly, Ransomware is evolving as a dominant threat. This malicious software encrypts user files, demanding ransoms for decryption. Beyond the universal recommendation of software updates, experts stress the importance of caution when navigating emails and embedded links. Crucially, regular data backups can serve as a lifeline, potentially negating the need to negotiate with ransomware perpetrators.

These are just some of the methods that hackers use to attack industries and individuals. It is important to be aware of these methods so that you can take steps to protect yourself from attack. In the face of these escalating threats, proactive measures and heightened awareness remain the best defenses for individuals and businesses.

Problem of ransomware

In a report from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), ransomware attacks saw a staggering 230 percent increase in 2020. Projections suggest this trend will continue into 2023. The rise in these cyberattacks is attributed to the ease of creating and deploying ransomware, with numerous kits readily available online that even inexperienced cybercriminals can use. The effectiveness of ransomware is evident, as many victims opt to pay ransoms to restore access to their vital files.

Jason Chen, ACER's chairman and CEO, has cautioned businesses and individuals against the rising threat of ransomware attacks, highlighting the dangers of paying ransom.

With ransomware becoming increasingly lucrative as many victims pay to regain data access, Chen warns that such payments only empower and embolden cybercriminals. He advocates for a collective stance against paying ransom, emphasizing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures, continuous staff training, and regular data backups to mitigate threats.

Chen also underscores the need for international collaboration among businesses, governments, and global entities to share threat intelligence, devise countermeasures, and enforce legal action against cybercriminals, ultimately aiming for a proactive and unified resistance to ransom demands.

Prevention is best defense

The overarching theme is clear: prevention is the best defense against cyber threats. Ensuring up-to-date security systems, employee training, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity vigilance can deter many potential breaches. And when breaches do occur, transparency, swift action, and an unwavering commitment to stakeholder trust are invaluable.

Cybersecurity is not a one-off solution or a static measure. It's an ongoing practice that requires constant vigilance, adaptation, and evolution. As technology advances and innovations emerge, cyber threats and attack strategies evolve.

It's like a never-ending game. As new tech comes out, bad guys find new ways to hack. So, we always have to stay alert and keep updating our security.