Cybersecurity : A Practical Guide to Prevent Cyberattacks

I am a techy guy with two security software installed on my system. And I’m also well aware of cybersecurity. Yet, my credit card information was stolen.

I realized it when I received a ‘transaction declined’ alert because I had set a limit on the card. Setting transaction limit saved my money. Now, you can imagine how easy it is to target anyone for the hackers.

According to a report cybercrime is projected to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. It shows that Cybersecurity is important for everyone. In this post, I want to aware non-tech users that how they can stay safe with good cybersecurity practices.

Before going further let’s start that who are at risk?

Understand the risks

Before we talk about the protection, first we need to understand about the risks.

Not just businesses, but everyone is at risk

One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that only large companies or celebrities are targets for cyberattacks. But it is not true. Attackers are increasingly focusing on individuals like you and me. Because they know that we often lack of cyber security.

What these cybercriminals want and why they are doing so?

Attackers want your money and data

They’re primarily interested in either stealing your money or using your personal information to commit further fraud.

Here’s a breakdown of what they’re typically after

• Financial gain: Access to your bank accounts, credit cards, or payment services (like PayPal).
• Sensitive data: Attackers can use your personal information to impersonate you, steal from you, or sell your data to third parties.
• Access to your network: Sometimes, you aren’t even the final target. Hackers can use your device as a stepping stone to break into a larger system.
• Access to your privacy: Cybercriminals can spy on you by hacking into your social media, emails, or even your webcam. They can use this to extort money or to sell ads.

From identity theft to ransomware, cybercriminals always try to find new ways to attack. Let‘s find out some common methods how they trap a person.

Common types of cyber attacks

Understanding the kinds of threats is the first step to protect yourself from cyber attacks.

1. Phishing

Phishing is one of the most common attacks, responsible for 36% of data breaches, according to a 2023 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report.

Phishing involves attackers sending deceptive emails, texts, or messages that seem to come from legitimate sources (banks, social media platforms or even your workplace). These messages usually ask you to click on a link or download a file, which gives attackers access to your device.

2. Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files, making them inaccessible until you pay a ransom.

Once ransomware has taken over your system, your options are limited. Pay the ransom (with no guarantee of getting your data back) or lose access to your files entirely.

3. Fraud calls

Ever received a call from “Microsoft Support” telling you that your computer has a virus? This is a tech support scam, one of many telecom frauds designed to trick you into giving away control of your computer.

Once the scammers are in, they can install malware, steal sensitive information, or extort money from you. Apart from this they can trap you in tax fraud, cybercrime fraud, porn fraud etc.

4. SIM swapping

SIM swapping is an increasingly common attack where criminals hijack your phone number by convincing your mobile carrier to transfer it to a new SIM.

Once they have control, they can bypass two-factor authentication (2FA) on many of your accounts.

5. Deepfakes and AI scams

As technology advances, so do cyber threats. Deepfakes, which use AI to create realistic fake videos. They can use this for scams and misinformation campaigns.

There are growing concerns that deepfakes could soon be used to impersonate people. It can make harder to verify who you’re communicating with online.

I once spoke to someone who had fallen victim to a phishing email pretending to be their bank and within hours, their bank account was emptied.

6. Card skimming

Card skimming happens both online and offline. In physical stores, hackers install devices on ATMs or card readers that steal your credit card information. Online, this can happen through fake e-commerce sites or compromised online payment forms.

List is not limited to above, it is a long list. Now the question is how to prevent these attacks?

Prevent Cyber Attacks Through Cybersecurity Awareness

First let’s understand what is cyber security?

What is cybersecurity?

In simple terms, cyber security refers to the measures and practices that keep your data, devices, and networks safe from unauthorized access.

But effective cyber security isn’t just about installing the right tools. it’s also about developing good habits and staying updated about evolving threats.

Now, Let’s find out how we can prevent cyber attacks by using cybersecurity software and developing good habits. Let’s first find out about cybersecurity software.

Use cybersecurity software

Cyber security software can help you to prevent cyber attacks to a great extent. Some of the essential security software that a home user can also afford.

1. Antivirus software

Probably everyone know about antivirus software. Antivirus software provide protection against various kind of cyber threats like Malware, Trojan, Spyware etc.

Modern antivirus has become more advanced and includes other essential tools for cyber security like password manager, VPN, Identity protection service, Anti-ransomware etc. My personal recommendation is to purchase an antivirus security suite. Here is a guide to find the best antivirus software.

2. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN encrypts your internet connection and make it more difficult for cybercriminals to intercept your data. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks. Know more about VPN.

Choose the best VPN service

3. Identity protection service

These services actively monitor your personal information and notify you if your data is found on the dark web. They can also help you recover from identity theft by guiding you through the process of securing your accounts.

Best Identity Protection Services

Having the right tools is just part of the equation. Good cyber security also requires awareness and smart habits. Here’s how you can develop those habits.

Be informed and stay updated

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so staying up to date is crucial. I follow a few tech news sites and cybersecurity blogs that regularly post about new types of attacks. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be.

National Security Alliance provide valuable resources for both individuals and businesses to learn about current threats, where to complaint and how to stay safe.

Regular backups are non-negotiable

I learned this the hard way when I lost some valuable personal documents. Now, I make sure to back up my data regularly, both to cloud storage and external drives.

If your device gets compromised by ransomware or hardware failure, you can restore your data without paying ransom or losing valuable information.

Learn how to take backup in Windows and Mac. Though there are some manual methods but we recommend to use a method which sync your backup automatically.

Ensure your backups are encrypted and stored in a secure location. Norton antivirus provide cloud backup service with its subscription.

Best backup software

Cybersecurity good practices

1. Use strong password and enable multi factor authentication.

Weak passwords are responsible for a large share of cyberattacks. In fact 81% of data breaches occur due to weak or stolen passwords​. Most people use the same passwords across multiple accounts which is a recipe for disaster if just one account is compromised.

• Use a strong password. You can generate strong password using a strong password generator tool.
• Use a password manager software to easily create and manage passwords.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). With MFA or 2FA enabled hackers can not login to your account even if they have your password.

For more information on creating and managing strong password visit our in-depth guide for password security.

2. Avoid phishing

According to the IC3 2023 report, phishing remains the most common form of cybercrime. Phishing is no longer limited to poorly written emails but phishing attempts are more sophisticated these days. They often mimics trusted organizations like your bank or employer.

• Before clicking, hover your mouse over the link to preview the URL. If the domain doesn’t look legitimate, don’t click it.
• If you receive an unexpected request for personal information then call the sender directly using a known number (don’t use the contact details in the suspicious email).
• Use an antivirus software having phishing protection feature.

For more on how to protect against phishing, check out our in-depth guide on “How to Spot and Avoid Phishing Scams”.

3. Beware of Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams

One of the most concerning trends in 2023 was the explosion in investment fraud. Which caused $3.31 billion in losses​. A large chunk of these scams revolved around cryptocurrency investments to trap victim for high returns..

• Before investing in anything, especially cryptocurrencies, research the company or opportunity using resources like Investor.gov.
• If an investment opportunity comes out of the blue via social media, email, or text, it’s likely a scam. Always be skeptical of offers that promise guaranteed returns.

Learn more about the latest investment fraud trends in our article on “How to Avoid Investment Scams and Cryptocurrency Frauds”.

4. Update Your Software to Prevent Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware continues to be a major threat, especially to industries like healthcare, where attacks can disrupt critical operations. In 2023, the IC3 reported that although ransomware complaints declined slightly, the financial impact remains significant​.

• Ensure your operating system, apps, and antivirus software are always up to date. Many attacks exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software.
• Use both cloud-based and offline backup methods. If ransomware strikes, having a clean, recent backup can save you from paying a ransom. Tools like Acronis True Image are great for automated, secure backups.

For more details on ransomware and how to protect yourself, check out our post on “What to Do Before and After a Ransomware Attack”.

5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Your home Wi-Fi network is often the gateway to your personal information. Unfortunately, 25% of attacks on home networks stem from default or weak router passwords​.

• Most routers come with a default admin username and password like “admin/admin.” Change these immediately to something strong and unique.
• Ensure your router is using WPA3 encryption, which is currently the most secure wireless encryption standard.
• Keep your primary devices on a separate network, and offer visitors access to a guest Wi-Fi network. This limits potential breaches.

Learn more about securing your home network in our detailed post on “How to Protect Your Wi-Fi from Hackers”.

6. Protect Your Business from BEC (Business Email Compromise)

BEC scams caused $2.7 billion in losses in 2023, accounting for nearly 24% of total cybercrime losses​. These attacks typically involve scammers pretending to be a trusted business partner or executive and tricking employees into transferring funds to fraudulent accounts.

• Always verify transfer requests, especially those involving large sums of money, by contacting the requester directly (using a known phone number, not the one provided in the email).
• Educate employees about BEC attacks, and implement protocols for verifying changes in vendor payment details.

For more on preventing BEC attacks, explore our resource: “Protect Your Business from BEC Scams”.

7. Keep an Eye on Your Financial Accounts

According to the IC3 report, identity theft cases and unauthorized financial transactions are on the rise. Monitoring your accounts regularly is one of the best defenses against these types of attacks.

• Most banks allow you to set up notifications for large transactions or suspicious activity. Enabling these alerts can help you detect unauthorized charges early.
• Use free tools like Credit Karma or Experian to regularly check your credit score and ensure no fraudulent accounts have been opened in your name.

For more in-depth strategies on protecting your finances, see “How to Protect Your Personal Information and Finances”.

• Don’t use easy to guess passwords instead use strong password with combination letters, numbers and special characters. To make it easy you can use the password manager software.
• Enable multi factor authentication that even if someone knows your password, they can’t access your account without that second code.
• Hover over links without clicking to see where they lead (they might say “PayPal.com” but actually go to “PayPa1.com”)
• Ask yourself: “Was I expecting this email? Does it sound too urgent or threatening?” If so, it’s likely a phishing attempt.
• Don’t do sensitive things like banking on public Wi-Fi (in cafes, airports). Instead, use mobile data if it’s important or connect through VPN software.
• Use app permissions wisely. Only give apps the permissions they actually need. For example, a calculator app doesn’t need access to your microphone.
• Check your bank and credit card statements regularly for any strange charges.
• Secure your router. Create strong password for your router. You can enable the router’s firewall to block unauthorized access.
• Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your devices when you’re not using them to avoid “bluejacking” or other wireless attacks.
• Avoid downloading pirated content or software.

Role of cyber insurance in cybersecurity?

Cyber insurance can’t prevent the cyber attacks but in can help in recovery. For businesses, cyber insurance has become an essential safety net, helping cover financial losses from cyberattacks, legal fees, and recovery efforts.

Many regular insurance companies are already offering such kind of insurances. Even some antivirus companies are bundling insurance cover with their comprehensive security suite.

Antivirus software with cyber insurance cover

Conclusion

Cyber security is everyone’s responsibility. From understanding common attack types like phishing and ransomware to using practical tools like antivirus software and VPNs. Staying safe in the digital world requires awareness and proactive measures.

In today’s connected world, staying safe online is as crucial as locking your door at night. Start implementing these tips now, and you’ll be much better prepared to navigate the digital landscape securely.

In the end, a modern antivirus software is recommended to prevent cyber attacks. These antivirus provide protection against Malware, Ransomware and other services like Identity Protection, VPN, Password Manager, Cyber insurance, Cloud Backup etc. Here is our top pick of the best antivirus suite.