O World Internet Day is celebrated this Wednesday and the Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.., a leading global provider of cybersecurity solutions, doesn't want to miss a day. Currently, we cannot live without the Internet, a basic resource for the new generations. Remember looking up information in an encyclopedia or going to a travel agency to buy a plane ticket or make a hotel reservation?
It seems like centuries ago, but the truth is that the network of networks has changed the way we carry out many tasks and has opened the doors to new possibilities that allow us, for example, to work from anywhere or make a bank transfer from the our cell phone with just one click.
Unfortunately, this incessant evolution is also present in the multiple threats posed by cybercriminals. We have gone from viruses distributed on floppy disks and Morris, the first worm to infect the Internet in 1988, to the appearance of Trojans, spyware and ransomware, the main protagonists of the current cybercrime scene.
According to the organization's 2023 Security Report, cyberattacks increased by 38% in 2022 compared to the previous year, with an average of 1.168 attacks per week per organization and a situation that looks set to continue to get worse for years to come.
This data makes it clear that we have to be prepared to face these threats, which is why Check Point Software takes advantage of this World Internet Day to remind us of the “bad habits” that we continue to maintain and that affect our digital security:
- neglect passwords: this is one of the most common mistakes, however, one of the practices that most affects the maintenance of adequate cybersecurity. We all find it easier to recycle passwords and use the same for personal and work emails, but we are putting important data at risk.
It is also very common to share them – Netflix or Spotify passwords, for example – and often write them down or send them in a message or email to family members or close friends. This reality translates into millions of users who see their accounts violated every year because they are not careful with their passwords.
To avoid this situation, it is advisable to create strong passwords, with at least 12 characters and a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Likewise, it is always recommended to update them every few months and not to reuse them on multiple different platforms or accounts.
- Update, Update, Update: all systems and devices have regular updates aimed not only at improving or fixing usability, but also at applying fixes for possible vulnerabilities. The message to update often appears at inconvenient times or when we don't have a Wi-Fi connection and, usually, we end up postponing or even ignoring its installation, unconsciously leaving an open door for cyber-attacks. By keeping our devices up to date, we can avoid many of the vulnerabilities that can occur.
- fall into misinformation: While most cyber-attacks currently focus on data theft, there has recently been an increase in hacktivist practices and other state-related threats. This type of practice often includes the distribution of disinformation with false news or biased and incomplete messages that take advantage of the emotional side of users to generate discord.
For this reason, it is advisable to use several sources to inform ourselves, as well as to verify any news or chain message before falling into practices such as mass dissemination. One of the main pillars of Internet security is common sense.
- Using free wireless networks: to avoid consuming your own data, surfing between hotspots and free Wi-Fi networks in restaurants, airports, train or metro stations, hotels and even public or private transport is increasingly common. However, security researchers have demonstrated on several occasions that this type of wireless network has little or no security.
It is advisable not to access an unknown network, but if you must, limit its use to basic navigation, avoid entering passwords or using sensitive applications, such as payment platforms or banking access.
- Browsing and trusting unsafe websites: One way to identify this type of fraudulent website is to look for small errors, such as typos, poorly written text or the presence of misleading or poor quality images. However, the most effective method is undoubtedly URL analysis, with security indicators such as SSL certificates (indicated by the presence of a padlock next to the web address); or alerts, such as the presence of irregular characters or subdomains.
“Although the Internet is still a very young tool, we already have a lot of experience to avoid being victims of cyberattacks”, underlined Rui Duro, Country Manager for Portugal at Check Point Software Technologies. “Once again, we must appeal to education and common sense, as education and knowledge are key to achieving a safe digital space for all.”
It is worth remembering that “The World Day of the Information Society, which is also known as World Internet Day was instituted in day May 17, 2005, after a United Nations General Assembly held in Tunisia. The first time this date was celebrated was in 2006″.
