Tag: cyber security

Scammers, ID.me IRS Requirements and Montenegro

MalwareTips Blog

ALERT: Hackers Are Posing As ID.me To Steal Your Identity

Photo of author
Shield Guide
updates-guide
install guide
Ad Blocker
backup sign
scam 4
Do You Know All .ME Domains like ID.ME Required by the IRS are Owned By Montenegro & Their Billionaire Club?

Identity verification services like ID.me have become indispensable in the digital age. By providing a secure and convenient way to prove your identity online, ID.me opens doors to essential services and benefits. However, as with any popular online platform, scammers are finding ways to exploit these services and trick unsuspecting users.

This article will take an in-depth look at the ID.me scams popping up, how they work, and most importantly, how to avoid becoming a victim. With identity theft and online fraud at an all-time high, awareness is your best defense.

This Article Contains:

Overview of the ID.me Scams

ID.me provides a valuable service as a digital identity network used by government agencies, healthcare providers, and other organizations to securely verify user identities online. By acting as a trusted validator of personal information, ID.me opens the door for people to easily access essential services and benefits.

However, this convenience also creates an opportunity for fraudsters. Scammers are increasingly impersonating ID.me through phishing campaigns in order to steal personal information from victims. Once they have the data, they can hijack identities, drain accounts, and perpetrate other forms of fraud.

These ID.me scams are growing more complex and convincing, making it crucial for users to understand the tactics and stay vigilant. Here are the main types of ID.me scams and frauds being perpetrated:

Phishing Emails

This is one of the most common vectors for ID.me scams. Victims receive emails pretending to be from the legitimate ID.me security team. These emails may:

  • Warn that unusual activity was noticed on your account
  • State that immediate account suspension will occur if no action is taken
  • Provide a fake deadline such as 24-48 hours to re-validate your account
  • Include a “Verify Account” or “Reset Password” button/link to a phishing site

If the user clicks the deceptive call-to-action button or link, they are taken to a convincing but fake ID.me login page designed to steal login credentials as well as other personal data.

Smishing Text Message Scams

Similar to phishing emails, fraudsters send text messages also impersonating ID.me. They state your account is at risk of being locked or needing immediate validation via a link included. If clicked, the link directs victims to a phishing site masquerading as the legitimate ID.me site.

Once on the fake page, any information entered is captured by scammers. Smishing texts use urgency and threats to get users to comply without thinking it through.

Vishing – Phone Call Scams

This technique uses phone calls rather than messages to trick victims. Scammers posing as ID.me support agents call users claiming that suspicious activity means accounts will be suspended without immediate intervention.

The “agents” pressure and persuade victims to provide personal details or even remote access to the victim’s device, enabling installation of info-stealing malware.

Fake ID.me Websites

Beyond phishing pages, scammers also create entire fake websites impersonating the real ID.me site. Links to these fraudulent sites are sent out en masse via email spam campaigns. They are designed to capture login details and personal info from unsuspecting victims who were persuaded the site was legitimate.

Malicious Software Scams

Scammers may also use phone calls, emails, or texts to trick users into downloading malware. This can occur by:

  • Sending a phishing message with an infected file attachment
  • Persuading victims to click a link to download fake “security software”
  • Requesting remote access to devices in order to “diagnose connectivity issues” then installing malware

Once installed, info-stealing malware can harvest data and credentials directly from the compromised device.

Account Takeover Scams

Sophisticated scammers may attempt full account takeover rather than simple phishing. By gathering key details like usernames, passwords, and partial SSNs from data breaches, they can convince ID.me’s system they are the legitimate account owner.

This enables them to bypass identity verification and fully compromise the account. 2FA often thwarts these takeover attempts however.

In summary, ID.me scams aim to exploit trusting users through impersonation and clever psychological manipulation. By understanding the deceptive tactics used in these scams, people can better recognize the warning signs and avoid being victimized.

How the ID.me Scams Work

Fraudsters use clever psychological tactics to manipulate victims in ID.me scams. Here is an inside look at exactly how they operate:

Step 1 – Initial Contact

Scammers initiate contact via:

  • Emails pretending to be ID.me security alerts
  • Texts claiming your ID.me account is at risk
  • Calls posing as ID.me support agents

Their goal is to cause panic so you act without thinking.

Step 2 – Creating Urgency

Next, scammers pressure you to take immediate action by:

  • Stating your account will be frozen if you don’t re-verify
  • Claiming the deadline to avoid suspension is approaching
  • Warning of penalties or losses if you don’t comply

This plants a fear of missing out, causing you to stop questioning.

Step 3 – Requesting Information

Scammers will instruct you to confirm sensitive details such as:

  • Login credentials
  • Social Security Number
  • Bank account info
  • Credit card numbers

They may pretend it’s needed to verify your identity and keep your account active.

Step 4 – Gaining Remote Access

In some cases, scammers will try to gain remote access to your device by making you:

  • Download suspicious files allowing control of your system
  • Enter codes sent to your phone number enabling account takeover
  • Allow screensharing applications giving them access to your data

Step 5 – Leveraging Your Identity

Once scammers have your information, they can:

  • Access and drain your financial accounts
  • Make purchases using your credit cards
  • Commit tax fraud with your SSN
  • Steal your identity to open accounts or apply for loans

The damage can be extensive if scammers successfully exploit your identity.

What to Do if You Fell Victim to an ID.me Scam

If you suspect your ID.me account or identity has been compromised, take these steps immediately:

Step 1 – Lock Down Your Accounts

  • Reset your ID.me password and enable two-factor authentication
  • Contact banks to freeze accounts potentially accessed by scammers
  • Place fraud alerts and monitor your credit reports closely
  • Change passwords on any compromised accounts

Step 2 – Report the Incident

  • File identity theft reports with the FTC and your local police department
  • Notify ID.me directly so they can secure your account
  • Contact companies where your identity was likely abused
  • Report social media and email phishing attempts

Step 3 – Monitor for Suspicious Activity

  • Set up account alerts to notify you of any unusual activity
  • Periodically get free credit reports to catch new fraudulent accounts
  • Review all statements thoroughly for any unauthorized charges
  • Sign up for identity theft protection services to detect misuse

Step 4 – Recover From the Fraud

  • Dispute any fraudulent charges or accounts opened in your name
  • Work with creditors to close fraudulent accounts and reverse damages
  • Update information related to your identity, accounts, and credentials
  • Change compromised account numbers and request replacement cards

Frequently Asked Questions About the ID.me Scam

1. What is the ID.me scam?

The ID.me scam involves fraudsters impersonating the valid ID.me identity verification service in phishing attempts via email, text messages, and phone calls. Their goal is to trick victims into revealing login credentials or sensitive personal information.

2. How do scammers carry out the ID.me scam?

Scammers initiate contact posing as ID.me through:

  • Fraudulent emails warning your account is at risk
  • Smishing texts claiming you must reverify your ID.me account
  • Vishing phone calls pretending there is suspicious activity

They pressure you to act urgently and provide info to avoid account suspension.

3. What techniques do scammers use in the ID.me scam?

Scammers manipulate victims using:

  • Fear – Threatening account suspension or penalties
  • Urgency – Impending deadlines to reverify accounts
  • Social Engineering – Pretending to be ID.me support agents
  • Phishing Links – Fake ID.me login pages stealing credentials

4. What information do scammers attempt to steal with the ID.me scam?

Scammers phish for:

  • Usernames and passwords
  • Bank account and routing numbers
  • Credit card details
  • Social Security Numbers
  • Driver’s license numbers
  • Digital wallet account access

5. What do scammers do with my information from the ID.me scam?

Scammers can use your information to:

  • Drain financial accounts
  • Make purchases with your credit cards
  • Steal your tax refund
  • Apply for loans or credit in your name
  • Access government benefits using your identity

6. How can I avoid falling for the ID.me scam?

To avoid the ID.me scam:

  • Never click links in unsolicited messages
  • Don’t provide info to incoming calls alleging to be ID.me
  • Verify custom URLs before entering login credentials
  • Enable two-factor authentication as an extra layer of security
  • Monitor accounts closely for unauthorized activity

7. What should I do if I fell victim to the ID.me scam?

If you fell for the scam, immediately:

  • Reset your ID.me password and security questions
  • Contact banks to freeze accounts
  • Place fraud alerts on credit reports
  • Report identity theft to the FTC and police
  • Close any accounts opened fraudulently

8. How can I recover from identity theft related to the ID.me scam?

To recover, be sure to:

  • File police reports regarding the identity theft
  • Dispute fraudulent charges with banks and creditors
  • Change compromised account numbers and request new cards
  • Monitor credit reports and financial statements for misuse
  • Sign up for identity theft protection services

9. How can I help others avoid the ID.me scam?

You can help others by:

  • Reporting scams and phishing emails to help shut them down
  • Making family and friends aware of the tactics scammers use
  • Encouraging people to use unique passwords and two-factor authentication
  • Advising caution against unsolicited calls, texts and emails

10. Who can I contact for help after falling victim to the ID.me scam?

Reach out to the following for assistance:

  • ID.me Support – They can secure your account
  • Your bank’s fraud department
  • Federal Trade Commission – To report identity theft
  • IRS – If tax fraud occurred
  • Local police – To file an identity theft report

The Bottom Line

ID.me provides a valuable service, but also opens the door for scammers to steal identities. Stay vigilant against phishing attempts via email, text and phone. Never click unverified links, provide sensitive information to strangers, or allow remote access to your device. If you do fall victim, take steps immediately to lock down your identity and report the fraud before irreparable harm is done. Spread awareness about these scams to help others avoid becoming victims too.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.It’s essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you’re agreeing to before you click “Next.”
  4. Install an ad blocker.Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
  5. Be careful what you download.A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.Whether it’s your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it’s easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn’t make messages more trustworthy.
  7. Back up your data.Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
  8. Choose strong passwords.Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
  9. Be careful where you click.Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
  10. Don’t use pirated software.Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it’s important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.CategoriesScamsLoad Comments

Photo of author

Meet Thomas Orsolya

Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.

Since 2010

Founded in 2010, MalwareTips is a leading cybersecurity community providing free malware removal tutorials, tech news, scams exposure, dedicated help forums, user education, and security guides.14+ years of activity65K+ security and tech guides180M+ annual readers

Our Community

With over 60,000 members, we invite you to join our tech-focused community. Discuss malware, security tips, emerging threats, and more with fellow enthusiasts. Share your questions and insights to spread awareness. We welcome you to our diverse, growing forum!70K+ registered members900K+ forum messages65K+ topics discussed

Create your free account

New

NEXT

Form 4022 Scam: Don’t Fall Victim to This Bogus Tax Letter

Disclaimer

We offer free and tested self-help guides.
MalwareTips.com can not be held responsible for problems that may occur by using this information. If you would like help with any of these fixes, you can ask for malware removal assistance in our dedicated support forums.

Please ensure your data is backed up before proceeding.

Follow Us

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to know first about the latest cybersecurity incidents and malware threats.

Legal

Copyright © 2024 · All Rights Reserved · Any redistribution or reproduction of part or all of the contents in any form is prohibited.

How to Hide Your IP Address and Change Location on Coinbase

Are you concerned about your online privacy and looking for ways to mask your IP address on Coinbase?

If like many people, you have come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to change your location on Coinbase (or any other Crypto Exchange) and hide personal information like your IP address, country, and region.

 

Quick Guide: Hide Your IP Address and Change Your Location

  • Mask Your IP Address
  • Flush DNS and Renew Your IP Address
  • Change Your Coinbase Location Settings
  • Other Methods to Hide Your IP Address and Location on Coinbase

Why Hide Your IP Address?

There are several reasons why you might want to hide your IP address. One of the main reasons is to protect your privacy and prevent Coinbase from tracking your physical location. By masking your IP address, you can also avoid leaving a digital footprint and bypass content filters or bans.

How to Hide Your IP Address and Location from Coinbase

  1. Mask Your IP Address
    • Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or proxy server to mask your IP address and spoof your location.
    • We recommend using NordVPN for its ease of use and reliability.
    • Follow these steps to install and configure NordVPN:
      1. Visit NordVPN’s website and create an account.
      2. Download and install NordVPN on your devices.
      3. Connect to a VPN server from your preferred location.
  2. Flush DNS and Renew Your IP Address
    • Clear your DNS cache to ensure your computer obtains the latest IP address from Coinbase’s DNS server.
    • Renew your IP address through your device’s settings or command prompt.
    • Follow these steps for PC (Any Windows OS Computer) (please contact me directly at https://www.t.me/DigitalFoundation for one on one Consultation):

Step-by-Step Guide: Flush DNS and Renew Your IP Address

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

      • On Windows: Press the Windows key, type “cmd” in the search bar, then press Enter.
      • On Mac: Open Spotlight (Command + Space), type “Terminal,” then press Enter.

Step 2: Run Command Prompt as Administrator

      • Right-click on Command Prompt in the search results.
      • Select “Run as administrator” from the context menu.

Step 3: Enter Commands

      • In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
        • ipconfig /flushdns (This command clears the DNS resolver cache.)
        • ipconfig /release (This command releases your current IP address.)
        • ipconfig /renew (This command requests a new IP address from your DHCP server.)

Step 4: Confirm Success

      • Look for confirmation messages after each command.
      • You should see messages indicating successful flushing of the DNS resolver cache and renewal of your IP address.

Step 5: Close Command Prompt

      • Once you’ve completed the commands and confirmed success, you can close the Command Prompt window.

Note:

      • Flushing the DNS resolver cache and renewing your IP address can help resolve network connectivity issues and ensure that your computer has the latest IP address information.
      • These steps may vary slightly depending on your operating system. Always run Command Prompt with administrator privileges for these actions.

Mac/Apple Flushing DNS:

 

  1. Change Your Coinbase Location Settings
    • Before logging in to your Coinbase account, ensure NordVPN is running and connected to the preferred server location.
    • Log in to your account, go to “Privacy Settings,” and change your “Location/Region/Country” to match your VPN server.
    • Save the changes and you’re all set.

Can’t Change Your Coinbase Location Settings? Here’s What to Do

If you’re unable to change your region, location, or country on Coinbase’s account settings, you can contact Coinbase support for assistance. Follow these steps:

  • Connect to NordVPN and your preferred server.
  • Find the “Contact Us” or “Get in touch” page on Coinbase’s website here: https://help.coinbase.com/en-gb
  • Send a message to Coinbase support requesting a manual update of your physical location.
  • Wait for 24-48 hours for their response.

Other Methods to Hide Your IP Address and Location on Coinbase

In addition to using a VPN or proxy server, you can also consider using a neighbor or trusted friend’s Wi-Fi networks or proxy servers. However, keep in mind the security and privacy implications of these methods. If you are unsure or don’t know whether or not your Internet/Device/Computer is truly SECURE, take 2 minutes of your valuable time and go here to run a VPN and Browser Leak Scan: https://browserleaks.com/webrtc

 

VPN vs. Proxy vs. Public Wi-Fi: A Comparison

Here’s a comparison table outlining the key differences between using a VPN, proxy server, and public Wi-Fi to hide your IP address and change your location on Coinbase:

 

Features/Attributes VPN Proxy Server Public Wi-Fi
IP Address Masking Yes Yes Yes
Encryption Yes (High-level) No No
Geolocation Spoofing Yes Yes Partial
Ease of Setup Easy Moderate Easy
Speed Fast (depends on service) Moderate Varies (often slow)
Security High Low Very Low
Privacy High Low to Moderate Very Low
Access to Restricted Content Yes Yes Maybe
Consistency High Moderate Low
Cost Subscription Subscription or one-time fee Free
Legality & Compliance Generally Legal, some restrictions apply Generally Legal, some restrictions apply Legal

In summary, using a VPN offers the highest level of security and privacy, while proxy servers and public Wi-Fi networks may be less reliable. Choose the method that best suits your needs and always prioritize your online privacy and security.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively hide your IP address and change your location on Coinbase, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the effectiveness or suitability of the methods described.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you acknowledge that neither any individuals affiliated with GeeksByTheHour nor its affiliates are responsible for any actions, events, or consequences that may occur as a result.

It is recommended to consult with a qualified IT professional or technician before performing any network-related actions on your computer. Always proceed with caution and at your own risk.

Machine vs. Mind: Will AI be 2024’s Most Dangerous Cyber Weapon?

In 2024, for cybersecurity, we’re entering an era where advanced AI tools and escalated social engineering tactics (especially during election years) are changing the game. To avoid potential cyber threats, businesses, governments and individuals must grasp these emerging trends.

1. Rise Of Cybersecurity AI

In 2024, AI’s role in cybersecurity will expand to encompass automated responses and predictive analytics. It’s mainly about taking preventive measures in advance….

Integrating AI into cybersecurity applications can improve threat detection and incident response. For instance, AI can identify anomalies or deviations that may indicate potential security threats. Previously unseen attacks can be detected.

With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated, AI’s ability to analyze vast datasets and identify patterns will be pivotal. Since AI has become a major part of cyber criminals’ toolkit, AI is expected to become a mainstay in cybersecurity solutions.

2. Election Year Disinformation

Election years provide fertile ground for social engineering and disinformation campaigns, and there’s no reason to believe 2024 will be an exception. As political tensions rise, so do efforts to manipulate public opinion and undermine democratic processes.

Americans lost $10.3 billion to online scams in 2022, which also emphasizes the need for ongoing employee security awareness training that includes exercises to help identify social engineering tactics and phishing attempts. The use of open-source intelligence tools (OSINT) to root out network vulnerabilities is recommended as a preventive measure to combat threat actors.

3. Escalation Of Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware remains a formidable threat in 2024, with tactics becoming increasingly complex and negotiations more aggressive. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, damages from cybercrime are projected to exceed $10.5 trillion globally by 2025.

This alarming escalation calls for robust backup strategies, employee training, cyber insurance, negotiation expertise and incident response plans. Companies can follow the example of external performing tasks such as penetration testing, validating network integrity, identifying unauthorized activity and monitoring for suspicious behavior.

4. AI-Based Predictive Social Engineering

2024 will likely see a rise in AI-based predictive social engineering and a disturbing convergence of AI and social manipulation techniques.

Leveraging AI, cybercriminals can prey on human weaknesses such as impulsiveness, greed and curiosity to more convincingly create personalized phishing campaigns at scale. AI-facilitated social engineering attacks have been reported to the FTC.

This emerging trend underscores the need to perform AI risk assessments and to consider outsourcing expertise to a virtual AI officer who can step into the role and run AI-resistant security protocols.

5. National U.S. Data Privacy Act

The progression of data privacy regulations—beginning with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and extending to California’s Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)—is paving the way for establishing a national data privacy act in the U.S. called the American Data Privacy and Protection Act.

With five states’ privacy acts becoming effective in 2024 and other data breaches costing companies an average of $4.45 million, legislating a national data privacy standard is more urgent than ever.

6. Cyberattacks On Cannabis Retailers

The burgeoning cannabis industry, particularly retailers, is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks as they transition to digital platforms. Banks and credit card services could begin to accept electronic payments and ACH transfers from cannabis businesses—thanks to pending legislation making its way through Congress—and the gap between point of sale (PoS) systems and potential data breaches narrows significantly.

Human error and complacency are major risk factors, and the industry’s nascent adoption of digital technologies makes it an attractive target for cybercrime. Retail dispensaries must prioritize cybersecurity to protect their client data and financial transactions, as the sector’s so-called “green rush” also attracts the unwanted attention of threat actors.

7. Zero Trust Elevates To Boardroom Status

The concept of zero trust in cybersecurity, akin to the rise of anti-virus software in the 1990s, is set to become a staple topic in boardroom discussions in 2024. Gaining steady momentum, the implementation of zero trust is no longer a technical nicety but a business imperative.

Rooted in the principle of “never trust, always verify,” the widespread adoption of zero-trust architectures signifies a paradigm shift in security strategies, emphasizing continuous verification of every user and device, regardless of their location or network.

This strategic move elevates cybersecurity from a technical concern to a core business function, crucial for protecting organizational assets.

8. FEMA Cyber Insurance

To make a bold and unprecedented prediction, FEMA, the federal agency known for last-resort flood insurance, may eventually be called upon to serve as a model and backstop for cyber insurance policies not covered by commercial carriers.

With traditional insurance carriers withdrawing from high-risk regions like Florida due to severe climate events, there is a growing need for federal intervention. A FEMA initiative could potentially underwrite essential services like airports, hospitals, energy and water treatment plants as commercial insurance options become limited.

Conclusion

The increasing complexity of cyber threats underscoring the security trends of 2024 highlights the need for advanced mitigation strategies. Organizations will need to understand these trends, ensure they enable best practices and consider collaborating with outsourced cybersecurity expertise to navigate the security environment and ensure a robust, future-ready cyber defense.

Top 10 Cybersecurity Trends (Updated for 2023)

Top 10 Cybersecurity Trends (Updated for 2023)

Table of Contents

1) Rise of Automotive Hacking 

2) Potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

3) Mobile is the New Target 

4) Cloud is Also Potentially Vulnerable 

5) Data Breaches: Prime Target

6) IoT with 5G Network: The New Era of Technology and Risks 

7) Automation and Integration 

8) Targeted Ransomware

9) State-Sponsored Cyber Warfare

10) Insider Threats

2023: The Digital Transformation realized for businesses, organizations and even governments are relying on computerized and progressively increased digital systems to manage their day-to-day activities making Cybersecurity a primary goal and priority for all Executives and Organizations of all sizes.

The 2020 pandemic  year exacerbated this fact – with up to 75% of billions of people globally transitioning from their physical office (which had the IT resources and personnel) to their “home office”. Essentially turning the entire “working from home industry” and all of the IT and HR requirements that it needs due to safeguarding data from various online attacks or any unauthorized access as the new “norm” of virtual/remote work.

Going Forward: Continuous change in technologies including the popular Dual Authorization Password apps primarily through utilizing the smart phone also implies a parallel shift and priority in Cybersecurity trends across the board in every organization as news of data breach, ransomware, malware, compromised devices/browsers and hacks unfortunately become the norms. This is simply based on adapting to the progressing volume (millions before the 2020 Pandemic worked from home, today it is billions) of remote workers. Here are the top Cybersecurity trends for 2023:

1) Rise of Automotive Hacking 

Modern vehicles nowadays come packed with automated software creating seamless connectivity for drivers in cruise control, engine timing, door lock, airbags and advanced systems for driver assistance. These vehicles use Bluetooth and WiFi technologies to communicate that also opens them to several vulnerabilities or threats from hackers. Gaining control of the vehicle or using microphones for eavesdropping is expected to rise in 2023 with more use of automated vehicles. Self-driving or autonomous vehicles use an even further complex mechanism that requires strict cybersecurity measures.

2) Potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

With AI being introduced in all market segments, this technology with a combination of machine learning has brought tremendous changes in cybersecurity. AI has been paramount in building automated security systems, natural language processing, face detection, and automatic threat detection and the ChatGPT OpenAI capabilities that are literally transforming industries of anything relating to “the written word” including Copy Writing, Marketing, Advertising, Education, and many, many others are all being automated with AI. Although, it is also being used to develop smart malware and attacks to bypass the latest security protocols in controlling data. AI enabled threat detection systems can predict new attacks and notify admins for any data breach instantly.

3) Mobile is the New Target 

Cybersecurity trends provide a considerable increase (50 percent) for mobile banking malware or attacks in 2020, making our handheld devices a potential prospect for hackers. All of our photos, financial transactions, emails, and messages possess more threats to individuals. Smartphones are logically one of the biggest targets for anyone with the skills and agenda primarily based on two facts:

  1. Smartphones are used by more people globally today than PC’s (personal computers)
  2. The security and vulnerabilities of smartphones are far less on average than PC’s
  3. Social Media like Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok as well as other installed Apps of all types on smartphones/PC’s/devices are being targeted more and more each day by malicious individuals and “ransomware gangs” globally.

4) The “Cloud” i.e. Internet is Also Potentially Vulnerable 

With more and more organizations now established on clouds, security measures need to be continuously monitored and updated to safeguard the data from leaks. Although cloud applications such as Google or Microsoft are well equipped with security from their end still, it’s the user end that acts as a significant source for erroneous errors, malicious software, and phishing attacks more than ever before today. Malicious actors across the globe are adapting faster than end users can act, especially in today’s ever so popular Social Media world.

5) Data Breaches: Prime target

Data will continue to be a leading concern for organizations around the world. Whether it be for an individual or organization, safeguarding digital data is the primary goal now. Any minor flaw or bug in your system browser or software is a potential vulnerability for hackers to access personal information. New strict measures General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) was enforced from May 25th, 2018 onwards, offering data protection and privacy for individuals in the European Union(EU). Similarly, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) was applied after January 1st, 2020, for safeguarding consumer rights in the California area.

6) IoT with 5G Network: The New Era of Technology and Risks 

With the advent and growth of 5G networks, a new era of inter-connectivity will become a reality with the Internet of Things (IoT).

The Internet of Things (IoT)  is essentially an interconnected global network where all devices are connected to each other as well as the “internet” 24×7. This communication between multiple devices also opens them to vulnerabilities from outside influence, attacks or an unknown software bug. Even the world’s most used browser supported by Google, Chrome was found to have serious bugs. 5G architecture is comparatively new in the industry and requires a lot of research to find loopholes to make the system secure from external attack.

Every step of the 5G network might bring a plethora of network attacks that we might not be aware of. Here manufacturers need to be very strict in building sophisticated 5G hardware and software to control data breaches.

7) Automation and Integration 

With the size of data multiplying every day, it is eminent that automation is integrated to give more sophisticated control over the information. Modern hectic work demand also pressurizes professionals and engineers to deliver quick and proficient solutions, making automation more valuable than ever. Security measurements are incorporated during the agile process to build more secure software in every aspect. Large and complex web applications are further hard to safeguard making automation as well as cyber security to be a key concept of the software development process.

8) Targeted Ransomware

Another important cybersecurity trend that we can’t seem to ignore is targeted ransomware. Especially in the developed nations’ industries rely heavily on specific software to run their daily activities. These ransomware targets are more focused today in 2023 including examples like the Wanna Cry attack on the National Health Service hospitals in England corrupted more than 70,000 medical devices. Though generally, ransomware asks to threaten to publish the victim’s data unless a ransom is paid still it can affect the large organization or in case of nations too.

9) State-Sponsored Cyber Warfare

There won’t be any stoppage between the western and eastern powers in attempts to find superiority. The tension between the US and Iran or Chinese hackers often creates worldwide news though the attacks are few; they have a significant impact on an event such as elections. And with more than 70 elections bound to be held this year, criminal activities during this time will surge. Expect high-profile data breaches, key infrastructure like airlines grounding planes due to internal software compromises, etc. as top cybersecurity trends for 2023.

10) Insider Threats

Human error is still one of the primary reasons for data breaches and cyber security issues and service tickets, up to 75% of all reported in fact according to the most recent 2022 statistics. Any employee having a grudge or just a bad day at their employer or intentional loophole can bring down a whole organization with millions of stolen data. One example of this in 2022 was an official Report by Verizon that a documented data breach gives strategic insights on cybersecurity trends that 45 percent of total attacks were directly or indirectly made by the employees. Creating a culture of more awareness within premises to safeguard data in every way possible is truly the primary goal today in 2023 as well as the future.