With technology advancing at an astonishing rate, the focus isn’t just on the latest apps and gadgets. We also have to be cautious of deceptive tactics that catch us off guard. If you want to stay informed and smarter about cybersecurity, click here to sign up for Kurt’s free Cyberguy Newsletter.
In the midst of our awe at new innovations, there exists a darker side, waiting for the right moment to surprise us. Just ask Shelley from Salisbury, Maryland, who encountered a digital surprise on an ordinary day. In an online note, she shares her experience: “I received a message from Norton suggesting that we should purchase more security from them. They believe that we should be paying over $700 a year for virus protection! When I checked the settings, I discovered that Norton had attempted to access my webcam, and it had been allowed! I also found out that Microsoft Edge had been granted access without my permission! I captured screenshots and quickly took pictures on my phone before the information disappeared.”
It appears this could have been a phishing attempt, where scammers try to trick you into clicking on a malicious link or attachment. Here are some signs that the email you received was not from Norton:
– The message contained an inflated price that incites you to click for an explanation.
– The message had a generic greeting, spelling or grammar errors, or an urgent tone.
– The message included an unexpected or unrecognized link or attachment.
– The message claimed there was an issue with your account or payment information and asked for confirmation or an update.
Do not be fooled by deceptive emails asking for your assistance. If Shelley had clicked on the link or attachment, she may have unknowingly downloaded malware onto her device, which could explain why Norton and Microsoft Edge tried to access her webcam without permission.
Receiving an unexpected email can throw us into a state of panic. Shelley’s experience is quite distressing, as her computer settings indicated that her webcam allowed access to both Norton and Microsoft Edge without her knowledge. This unrestricted access raises concerns about personal privacy. Uninvited entities peering into our personal lives can monitor every conversation and document. Additionally, with Microsoft Edge having access, browsing history, saved passwords, and personal data are at risk. The implications are significant, with sensitive information like online banking details, private conversations, and purchase histories becoming grounds for exploitation. This can lead to identity theft, fraudulent activities, and worse.
If you ever discover that someone has accessed your webcam or browser without permission, take the following steps:
– Immediately disconnect from the internet to stop any ongoing data transmission.
– Run a full system scan with antivirus software to identify and remove any malicious software.
– Change all passwords after ensuring your system is clean. Consider using a password manager for complex passwords.
– Report the incident to the company. Shelley should contact Norton’s customer support through their official website or call their phone number to verify her account status and security settings. Never respond to the email itself, especially if it appears to be a scam.
– Monitor your accounts closely for unauthorized activity for the next few months.
– Consider using identity theft protection services to monitor personal information and alert you of any unauthorized use or sale of your data on the dark web. They can also assist you in freezing your accounts to prevent further unauthorized access.
Navigating the world of technology can be challenging, as pathways are not always clear-cut. Sometimes, they are filled with traps. Here’s how to navigate this treacherous terrain:
– Stay vigilant and approach unexpected emails with skepticism, especially those requesting money or offering unrealistic deals. Trust your instincts and delete suspicious emails rather than risk compromising your devices.
– Keep your software up to date, including your operating system and browser to protect against cyber attackers who exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software.
– Cover your webcam with a simple webcam cover or use opaque tape to prevent unwanted access.
– Install reliable antivirus software on all your devices to protect against data breaches, malware, and phishing attempts.
– Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication to enhance security. Consider using a password manager to organize and protect your passwords.
– Be aware of which applications have access to your computer’s hardware and regularly review and revoke unnecessary permissions.
– Periodically clear your browsing data, including cookies, cached data, and browsing history, to make it harder for malicious parties to track your online activities and exploit saved data.
– Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your device from hackers trying to track your location and monitor your online behavior.
With all the conveniences and tools available online, it’s important to remember that there is a flip side. Just like in the real world, the online space has its share of malicious individuals. However, with the right knowledge, we can avoid falling into their traps and continue enjoying the internet safely.
Have you ever encountered something sketchy online or have any clever tricks to keep the bad guys at bay? Let us know by visiting Cyberguy.com/Contact. For more tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to Kurt’s free CyberGuy Report Newsletter at Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
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