If you want to use the Internet securely, then you need to make online safety a high priority. Ever since the Internet was first invented, it has evolved to spawn a darker aspect that places users in a vulnerable position.
Nowadays, if you don’t have the right type of protection, you could easily find yourself falling for the most common online threats. This includes ransomware, malware, and viruses. The worst part is that by the time you notice this, it will already be too late.
Most Dangerous Online Threats
The best way to use the Internet safely is to apply some type of protection to keep yourself safe from worms, malware and many other online threats which we’ll describe below.
1. Hacker
The word ‘hacker’ refers to programmers who use their coding skills and expertise to wreak computer damage. They use things like malware and scripts to gain illegal access to user devices. This is for the sole purpose of stealing data or even financial resources. Hackers can also develop malicious applications in order to steal personal data and other important information.
You will notice this when your device starts acting up. Hackers use relatively simple methods to gain access to their victim’s ecosystem, such as phishing emails etc. The bad news is it doesn’t seem like hacking is going to abate any time soon. This is because hacking is easy and an increasing number of developers is attracted to it. Many see it as an easy way to make extra cash or even create an entire career from it.
Sometimes the easiest way to protect yourself from being hacked is to avoid opening suspicious-looking emails. You should also activate your firewall, don’t share personal data online and refrain from downloading files from websites you’re not familiar with.
This is in addition to using antivirus software such as Defencebyte to keep malicious software at bay. Using an antivirus makes it so much easier to protect yourself both on and offline.
Defencebyte will literally block malicious software and warn you whenever you’re about to visit an unsafe website or download a dirty file.
2. Spyware
Among the more common online threats is spyware. As the name implies, this type of threat works by collecting information related to your browsing habits. Or any personal data that you share online.
What makes spyware so unique is the fact that it’s really good at hiding itself. Once it gets to work, hackers can use the collected information against you.
You can easily pick up spyware from normal activities like downloading files, streaming on certain websites and clicking on dodgy email attachments. You’ll know your device has an infection if you notice weird icons appearing on your screen, auto-opening tabs, and annoying error messages.
The best way to prevent getting infected by spyware is to refrain from visiting unsafe websites. You should constantly update your antivirus software and never open random emails from recipients you’re not even familiar with.
Defencebyte also offers spyware protection and it’ll sweep your device for online threats on a regular basis.
3. Adware
Most adware comes in the form of pop-ups tabs and banners that appear while browsing the Internet. Adware software is free of charge and allows advertisers to showcase different websites and products much to the annoyance of Internet users like yourself.
The problem with adware is that it allows advertisers to track your online activity and illegally collect any personal data that you might be sharing online. Hackers typically use free downloads to distribute adware. Offers for these downloads usually appear on the user’s home page, browser or desktop.
Again, using the right antivirus software is your first line of defense against adware and you should combine this by putting up firewalls whenever you’re using the Internet. If you already have adware on your device then your next course of action should be to back up all of your data. Then scan the device using antivirus software and reboot it.
4. Browser Hijack
Browser hijack refers to a malware program that forces your PC to visit websites that you don’t want to. This malware can also reduce the security protection on your browser setting. Symptoms of browser hijacking include an inability to access certain websites or even your home page. Instead, the browser hijack will redirect you to some other website.
Most people contract this type of malware after installing the wrong browser plugins and it can alter your online browsing experience in ways that you don’t necessarily like or want.
The good news is that you can easily avoid browser hijacks by using the right antivirus software to protect yourself from them. Defencebyte has the ability to identify and get rid of browser hijacks so you can get your browsing freedom back. Plus, once you’ve installed the software, it’ll automatically spot and block future intrusions before they wreak any actual damage.
5. Keylogger
Keylogger is also on the list of one of the most common forms of online threats around. It comes in the form of an online app which enables the hacker to record and collect every letter that you type while using the Internet.
Therefore, a keylogger creator can use this app to collect passwords, credit card numbers, email usernames and other online credentials that you unwittingly share. Hackers can use this information to steal identities and even to perform financial fraud.
The problem with keylogger malware is that it’s very stealthy and tends to hide really well. One of the signs of infection include having a slower mouse. You might even notice auto-complete suggestions that are different from the ones you typically use.
Sometimes, keylogger software is triggered through social engineering and phishing emails. Hackers can easily use these to install the malware into your device without your knowledge.
The best way to protect yourself from keylogger software is to be mindful of the websites you download files from. You can also use an alternate keyboard or virtual keyboard to confuse and dodge the keylogger app. If you like, you may also use a password management application which enters your passwords for you without the need to press keys.
However, nothing beats the use of a good quality antivirus to protect yourself from the keylogger malware.
Conclusion
Now that you are more informed and prepared for online threats, we would recommend to take care of your device security and use Defencebyte software.
This software offers multi-layered protection from all the threats mentioned above and definitely is the best in the market. Better try it yourself!
Are you familiar with any of the online threats mentioned in this article? Let us know in the comments area below! We like to hear from you as well.
