Digital identity is now the most important element of our digital lives, but it is also a target for potential attacks from hackers.
One of the most common means hackers use to breach a person's digital identity is the email phishing. Hackers send emails or messages pretending to come from trusted sources, in order to deceive the user and "force" them to disclose personal data.
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Data theft through leaks is a common method. These types of attacks occur when hackers take advantage vulnerabilities the security systems of websites or applications to gain access to personal data.
Another method is identity theft through malware. The malware can be installed on a computer without the user's consent and collect personal information such as passwords and bank account details.
Identity theft through social engineering is also a common method. Hackers use techniques such as disinformation to mislead victims.
What are the consequences of digital identity theft?
Online identity theft can have serious consequences. First, the perpetrators may use the your personal data to create fake accounts on various services, such as bank accounts or online shop accounts.
Hackers may also use your personal data to make purchases using your name.
An additional very important Consistency is that digital identity theft can cause defamation and psychological distress, as you may have to prove that you are not responsible for the actions taken under your own name. Doing so may cause long-term effects on the victim's digital presence, as it may not be possible to rebuild trust with people and organisations.
What tools and programs can be used to protect digital identity?
There are a variety of tools and programs that can be used to protect your online identity. One of these is the antivirus software programs that can detect and eliminate potential attacks.
To keep your passwords secure and organized, the use of a password manager is essential. These applications create and store strong passwords, thus reducing the risk of becoming a victim of an attack.
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The application of a virtual private network (VPN) is a reliable way to safeguard your online identity. VPNs encrypt the Traffic of your data online, providing additional security and preventing monitoring of your online activity.
Finally, the two-factor authentication is an effective way to protect your online identity. This means that you must verify your identity in two different ways before accessing your account, making it harder for attackers to gain access.
How can social networks and email services affect digital identity security?
Social networks and email services are the dominant ways of communicating and sharing information in our digital world. Although useful, these tools can be a source of risk to our online security.
Social media users often share personal information such as their date of birth, home address or phone number, which encourages hackers to breach security.
In addition, email services are often the target of phishing attacks, where hackers seek to obtain Accessed at to sensitive information, such as passwords and credit cards, through messages or emails pretending to be a legitimate service.
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Finally, the use of weak or repeated passwords on these platforms can increase the risk of a breach.
Therefore, protecting our digital identity nowadays requires perseverance, awareness and attention to online our activities.
