Things You Didn't Learn at School: How to Tell You're Being Hacked
Schools rely heavily on tech, yet they don’t often teach the basics of cybersecurity. Many students don't learn how to recognize the signs of hacking or how to keep accounts safe.
If your computer becomes unusually slow, you start seeing weird pop-ups or find strange files you didn't touch, it could mean you've been hacked.
Sometimes the signs aren’t as clear, like a new homepage or a toolbar you didn't add. But the key to staying on top of these things is to always be on the lookout and take security measures in advance.
Key Takeaways
- Recognize signs of hacking: unusual tech glitches, unexpected pop-ups, unusual account activity, password changes.
- Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity.
- Ensure security software is active; disable unrecognized logins.
- Protect yourself: use strong passwords, update software, avoid suspicious links, enable 2FA, use VPNs.
- Stay vigilant and informed about cybersecurity threats.
Spotting the Telltale Signs of Hacking
Just last year, 75% of cybersecurity experts reported a major spike in cyberattacks. Looking ahead, things might not improve, either…
It's clear we need to step up our online protection game to keep ahead of the growing threats. Keep an eye out for these 7 red flags that might indicate hackers have you in their sights:
1. Unusual Tech Glitches
If your device starts acting weird – crashing, slowing down, or behaving erratically – it might be a sign that someone has gotten into your device.
Hackers often use malicious software (malware) to take control of devices, which can cause strange glitches and performance issues. They might also exploit your device's resources for their own gain, like mining cryptocurrency, leading to sluggishness or unexpected battery drain.
Hacked devices may also communicate with the hacker's systems, resulting in unusual data traffic that could impact performance. So, if you notice your device acting strangely, don't ignore it.
2. Unexpected Pop-ups and Ads
Unexpected pop-ups and ads can sometimes also be a sign that your devices have been hacked because they could be caused by malware that has been installed without your knowledge.
This malware can display ads and pop-up messages in an attempt to generate revenue for the hacker or to trick you into clicking on them, which can lead to further infection or reveal personal information.
These unexpected pop-ups and ads can also slow down your device, change your web browser's homepage, and redirect your searches to ad-filled pages, all of which suggest that your device has likely been tampered with.
3. Unusual Activity on Your Accounts
If you notice unexpected activity on your accounts, such as strange emails, unknown logins, or unauthorized transactions, it could indicate a hack.
Hackers commonly use malware to obtain your credentials and access your accounts, potentially leading to privacy breaches, financial theft, or identity fraud. Act quickly to secure your accounts and investigate any signs of hacking to minimize further risks to your personal information.
4. Unexpected Password Changes
Typing in your password but unable to access your account? It could mean someone’s changed your password without your knowledge, which suggests someone has hacked into your device or account and changed the password to lock you out and have access for themselves.
5. Unexplained Network Traffic
Imagine your internet connection as a road – data travels on it, like cars to and from your device. You expect a certain amount of traffic from your usual online activities, but unexpected traffic at odd times could mean that someone’s hacked your device, sending or receiving data without your permission.
6. Disabled Security Software
When security software is turned off or disabled, it becomes easier for hackers to get in. Security software or antivirus helps keep hackers out, so turning it off makes it easier for them to sneak into your device and take control or steal information.
If your security software is disabled without you doing it, it could mean that a hacker has already snuck in and turned off the "locks" to access your device more easily.
7. Unrecognized Devices or Logins
Apps these days tend to have ways for you to check which devices you’re logged in on. If a device you don't recognize is logged in to your account, it should ring alarm bells – remove it instantly and change your passwords.
Easy Ways to Protect Yourself From Hackers
We all use gadgets and online accounts that contain sensitive info, so it's important to know what it looks like when they’re potentially being hacked.
At the same time, it’s important to be aware of ways to mitigate these risks, such as:
- Using Strong Passwords: Make sure your passwords are long, complex, and unique for each account.
- Updating Software Regularly: Install updates for your operating system and apps whenever they become available.
- Avoiding Suspicious Links: Don't click on links or download attachments from unknown sources in emails or messages.
- Using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA for an extra layer of security on your accounts.
- Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network):
- Hides Your IP Address: A no-log VPN makes it harder for hackers to target your device specifically.
- Encrypts Your Data: Protects your information from being intercepted, especially on public Wi-Fi.
Stay Safe
Now that you know the signs and a couple of easy ways to protect your accounts and devices, you should feel more confident in your ability to stay safe online.
Remember – pay attention to the signs, use strong passwords and VPNs, and keep your eyes peeled for the latest cyber threats.
Final Thoughts
In a digital age where cyber threats are rampant, recognizing the signs of hacking is crucial. From unusual device behavior to unexpected account activity, staying vigilant is key to protecting your personal information. By implementing strong passwords, updating software regularly, and using security measures like two-factor authentication and VPNs, you can bolster your defenses against hackers. Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay safe online.
FAQ's
Q: How can I tell if my device has been hacked?
A: Look out for unusual glitches, unexpected pop-ups, unfamiliar account activity, sudden password changes, unexplained network traffic, disabled security software, and unrecognized logins or devices.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my device has been hacked?
A: Act quickly to secure your accounts by changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, updating software, running antivirus scans, removing unrecognized logins or devices, and contacting your service provider for assistance.
Q: How can I protect myself from hackers?
A: Use strong, unique passwords, regularly update software, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, enable two-factor authentication, use a virtual private network (VPN) for added security, and stay informed about the latest cyber threats.