Understanding Phishing and Ransomware Attacks: How to Protect Your Home and Business

Cybersecurity threats are becoming more sophisticated every day. Two of the most common threats you might encounter are phishing attacks and ransomware. You’ve probably heard these terms before, but do you know how they actually work—and more importantly, how to protect yourself from them?

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of cyberattack where a hacker pretends to be a legitimate company or person to trick you into giving away personal information like passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security details. These attacks often come through email but can also show up as texts or fake websites that look eerily like the real thing.

Tip: One way to spot phishing emails is by hovering over any links (without clicking!). If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the official website, don’t trust it.

The best defense against phishing is awareness. For example, in 2022, phishing scams accounted for 36% of all data breaches. To stay safe:

• Always verify the sender of an email or message.
• Don’t click on any suspicious links or download unexpected attachments.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts to add an extra layer of security.

For a deeper dive into phishing, check out resources from the Federal Trade Commission.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that locks your files or system until you pay a ransom to the hacker. These attacks are especially scary because they can happen to anyone—from individuals to large businesses.

One of the most notorious ransomware attacks was WannaCry in 2017, which affected over 200,000 computers across 150 countries . While high-profile attacks often make the news, small businesses are often more vulnerable, as they may not have the resources for advanced cybersecurity systems.

What can you do to avoid ransomware?

• Backup your data regularly. If ransomware locks up your files, having a recent backup allows you to restore everything without paying a cent.
• Keep your software and devices up to date with the latest security patches. Hackers exploit weaknesses in outdated systems.

If you’re ever unsure whether an email, message, or website is legitimate, don’t hesitate to contact us at KWIKOM for advice! We’re always happy to help our neighbors stay safe online.