It has been noted that computer hacking refers to the manipulation or unauthorized access of networks, computer systems, or data. It is said to involve “exploiting weaknesses or vulnerabilities in software, hardware, or human behaviour to gain access to information, systems, or networks for various purposes. Hackers may employ techniques like social engineering, phishing, malware, and exploiting software bugs or misconfigurations”.
There are various reasons why people hack computers. Some hackers are trying to steal sensitive information such as personal data or credit card details which they then sell on the black market. Others may hack for activism or political reasons. This is known as hacktivism. Others are said to “engage in hacking for personal satisfaction, intellectual challenge, or curiosity”.
Six signs of hacking
Which? has compiled a handy list of six signs that your computer has been hacked, which can be read about here: The six signs are as follows:
1. Your antivirus software has been disabled and you might stop receiving security notifications or scan reminders.
2. New programs or files appear on your computer in your Downloads or Documents folders that you didn’t create.
3. Unfamiliar logins on your online accounts when you might see an alert that your account was accessed from another country or a new device. If this happens unexpectedly, it could mean your PC has been compromised and your login details stolen.
4. Your PC is running slower than normal, freezing during everyday tasks or taking longer than normal to load programs, it may have been hacked.
5. Your web browser settings have changed, as malware is able to change your browser settings without permission. This causes your default search engine to switch to one that generates revenue for scammers or exposes you to phishing sites.
6. You keep seeing pop-ups and adverts, so “If security alerts or adverts from unfamiliar apps start fighting for your attention, your computer might be infected with adware.”
Which? has advice here about 12 things every laptop or PC owner should do to keep their data safe.
Is it worth paying for antivirus?
Antivirus software otherwise known as computer protection software is said to be a “program(s) that is created to search, detect, prevent and remove software viruses from your system that can harm your system. Other harmful software such as worms, adware, and other threats can also be detected and removed via antivirus”.
This software can prevent threats from entering your computer and causing issues as it is designed to be used as a proactive approach to cyber security. Most antivirus can provide real-time protection against virus attacks, and the software operates in the background once it has been installed.
Which? has given some advice about whether or not there are any antivirus programs which are actually worth paying extra for, or whether you should just opt for the free packages that “simply include capable core protection and little or nothing else”. Here Which? reveals whether there are any fundamental differences between free and paid-for versions of the same antivirus software.
Click here for advice from Which? about what to do if your email has been hacked.
Subscription traps: question-and-answer services with a sting
On 18th November last year the government announced new proposals to crack down on subscription traps as it “launches a consultation on measures to make it easier for consumers to get a refund or cancel unwanted subscriptions”.
Subscription traps, which are also sometimes known as “negative option billing,” are said to occur when a “company automatically charges consumers for services or products they did not explicitly agree to purchase”.
Which? has warned people to beware online question-and-answer services which sometimes appear at the top of search engine results. They will promise to connect you with ‘verified experts’. However reports submitted to Which? suggest that they are little more than costly subscription traps.
Which? has stated that, “Howly and JustAnswer tempt you with a small charge initially – as little as £1 – but if you miss the small print, you’ll face recurring monthly payments of up to £50. People told us they had no idea they would incur such steep subscription costs, or assumed they were giving their card details to entirely different businesses”.
There is more about what Which? has to say about subscription traps here.
Scam Sharer Tool
If you come across a scam, please use the scam sharer tool here to help keep others safe.
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