Article summary - information security

Cyber-attacks disguise themselves in a variety of ways ranging from email messages that appear to be sent from a person in your contacts list, to malicious files sent as attachments from a familiar source such as your bank or other businesses you frequent. Understanding what not to do may be just as important as what to do when these events occur.

In the event of a successful cyber-attack, the attacker may demand some form of ransom payment to regain access to your files that have either been compromised or stolen. Releasing control is usually requested in the form of cryptocurrency which is much more difficult to track.

Downloading apps from unknown developers, opening files from random email sources, visiting infected web sites, or clicking on links that are unfamiliar to you may all be ways you are lured in and cause you to be more vulnerable to attacks.

The best way to protect yourself is to be keenly aware as you search the web or read through your email messages. Training yourself to spot a potential attack is your best defense and the the best way to protect yourself from cyber-attacks.