Cyber security - 5 basic rules to protect against attacks

Sensitive data leakage can cost a lot

Hacking or ransomware attacks to steal data and other information about natural persons have become increasingly common in recent times. Continuing technological advances in the economy and society, bring with them greater opportunities and challenges, and cyber security is becoming increasingly important on both a personal and social level.

As recent reports of the leak of sensitive data from ALAB labs' network show, the ultimate impact of the increasingly frequent cyber attacks is difficult to assess. It is possible that not only the data held by ALAB Laboratories, but also the data of third parties who used its services, were affected during this incident. For this incident, the blackmailers demanded a ransom payment. Its amount could be very large, given the particular sensitivity of the data and its volume.

Check if your data has leaked in the servicebezpiecznedane.gov.pl.

Cybercrime and new data theft methods

Cybercrime is constantly evolving, and the activities of those seeking to steal data are taking on entirely new forms. For example, the use of phishing, the installation of malware and other malicious practices is an increasingly popular method among cybercriminals. Their main goal is to gain access to data or access to devices with which the cybercriminal steals the data of a person. This can lead, for example, to gaining access to an organisation's bank account or databases.

Cyber security - basic ways to secure and protect data

Online security is a cornerstone of so-called digital hygiene, especially today when the use of electronic devices is an indispensable part of our daily lives. At the same time, the risk of data loss is increasing and can have serious consequences. Therefore, we encourage you to read and implement the following simple ways of taking care of your cyber security.

5 ways to keep safe online:

1. Email, SMS and phone calls from an unknown source / number

Be careful if you receive unwanted e-mails, text messages or phone calls - especially if your callers urge you to enter your data without verifying it through a security procedure. Remember that in most cases it is the human being who is the weakest link in data protection, as it is much easier to manipulate someone than to successfully hack into a complex IT system.

2. Access data

Remember not to disclose access passwords to anyone - under any circumstances. There are no procedures in place in any institution that require you to disclose your password.

3. Secure passwords

Pay attention to the structure of passwords, always use an appropriate level of complexity (upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters). Do not use the same password in many places, logging into different institutions, offices, post offices, etc. Remember to set a strong password for your home WI-FI network, and only allow trusted devices to connect to it.

4. Use of IT tools and software

Use only tools with high reliability parameters. Install only legitimate software from trustworthy sources and keep your anti-virus and other security systems up to date.

5. Education

Raise awareness of the necessity to take special safety measures in cyberspace, among your relatives, family, friends and colleagues.