What are hackers?
People who engage in hacking activities are often called “hackers.” Hackers may be motivated by a variety of reasons, including profit, protest, information gathering, challenge, recreation, or boredom. Ethical hacking is a term used to describe hacking activities performed by an individual or group with permission from a target organization.
How often do authorities catch hackers?
It is difficult to accurately estimate the percentage of hackers who are caught and prosecuted by authorities. However, a 2016 study by researchers at the University of Portsmouth found that only 1 in 700 hackers are arrested for crimes.
There are a number of reasons why catching and prosecuting hackers is difficult. First, many hacking activities are carried out remotely, making it hard to identify the perpetrator. Second, hackers often use anonymizing technologies, such as virtual private networks (VPNs), to hide their identity and location. Finally, many hacking activities are not illegal in all jurisdictions, making prosecution more difficult.
What can you do to avoid being hacked?
There are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself from being hacked:
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Strong passwords are long, complex, and unique. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone or another device in addition to your password.
- Keep your software up to date: Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems and data. By keeping your software up to date, you can help protect yourself from these attacks.
- Be careful what you click on: Many hackers use phishing emails or malicious websites to trick people into clicking on links that install malware or give them access to your system. Be wary of any email or website that asks you for personal information or financial data.
- Use a secure VPN: A VPN can help protect your traffic from being intercepted by hackers. Look for a VPN that uses strong encryption and doesn’t keep logs of user data.
- Use managed cybersecurity services: Managed cybersecurity services can provide you with comprehensive protection against the latest threats. These services can be expensive, but they may be worth the investment if you are concerned about being hacked.
What happens if you get hacked?
If you are the victim of a hacking attack, there are a few steps you should take to minimize the damage:
- Change your passwords: If hackers have gained access to your account, they may have also obtained your password. Change your passwords immediately, and make sure to use strong and unique passwords.
- Contact your bank or credit card company: If you think your financial information has been compromised, contact your bank or credit card company right away. They may be able to help you prevent fraud or identity theft.
- Scan your computer for malware: Hackers often install malware on victim’s computers in order to steal data or gain access to sensitive information. Use an anti-malware program to scan your computer for malware and remove any that is found.
- Notify the authorities: If you have been the victim of a serious hacking attack, you should notify the authorities. They may be able to help you track down the perpetrator and prosecute them.
- Seek professional help: If you are still feeling overwhelmed after being hacked, seek professional help from a cybersecurity expert or counselor. They can provide you with support and guidance as you recover from the attack.
Now that you know how often hackers are caught and prosecuted, and what you can do to protect yourself from being hacked, you can be more vigilant in your cybersecurity efforts. Remember to keep your software up to date, use strong passwords, and be careful what you click on. If you do these things, you can help reduce your risk of being hacked.