Question

How could a hacker take advantage of source data? Is there a particular process he or she would follow?

Answer 1

Anyone who uses devices that are connected to internet is susceptible to threats that computer hackers pose. They collect personal information from your devices source data using various means (of course without your knowledge or consent) and can further lure you into revealing financial information or transactions or much worse than that. Some of the ways in which a hacker can take advantage of your source data are:

• Hijack your usernames and passwords and log in as you from his own device
• Capture your bank information and open credit card, steal your money and create new bank accounts in your name
• Make purchases using your credit/debit cards or obtain cash advances
• Use your Social account and abuse it
• Sell your information to other parties who can use it for illegal purposes
• Monitor your conversations or peruse the back-end of your personal website

Generally the hackers follow a process which can technically be termed phishing, spam email or instant messages and bogus websites to deliver dangerous malware to your computer and compromise your computer security, if it is not protected by a firewall. Some of the process followed by hackers in depth are as below:

Phishing - Hackers put incorrect spellings or grammatical errors in domain names or email addresses. They often use email addresses that resemble the names of well-known companies but are slightly different. Thus we should check twice before clicking any links or email messages. Instead of clicking at once, hover your mouse on the link to see if the URL matches the link that was provided in the messages.

Malware - Hackers can steal data sources from your devices via various sources such as Trojans or Virus or Spyware or Key logger. They put these malware sources in a software or as a pop up in websites or in operating systems. Thus we should always use a legitimate anti-virus software, not download any fake software, never click on fake antivirus pop-ups, keep operating systems updated.

Malicious mobile apps - Hackers can steal data sources from your devices via various sources such as seeking permission for accessing accounts or microphone access or Contacts access or even for sending an SMS. Thus always check the permissions, reviews, ratings, download rates before downloading an app. Avoid downloading apps from third party stores or even the pirated apps.

Insecure networks - Hackers would try various ways to get us connected to open unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Since it is free, we try to use it for our convenience.Avoid performing any bank transactions or accessing any critical information while being connected in such networks. Use strong encryption for your home and office WiFi router.