How to Be Prepared for Future Threats

Technology continues to improve over time. Unfortunately, cybercriminals will use these new developments to come up with more convincing ways to trick you. Let’s look at some recent changes in technology and how you can continue to stay safe.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI isn’t new, but it continues to change quickly. Cybercriminals can use it to create more personalized phishing emails. AI can be used to analyze your online activity and social media profiles. The data that it gathers can be used to create emails that appear to come from someone you know. This personal touch would make it more likely that you would click a link or reply.

AI can also help cybercriminals develop more advanced malware. One example is polymorphic malware, which can automatically adapt and change its code. This adaptability makes it harder for antivirus software to recognize it. Cybercriminals can even use AI to test their malware, improving its ability to adapt and avoid detection.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Many homes today are filled with devices that connect to the internet. Even ordinary things like thermostats and light bulbs can be configured to access them with your phone. Each device you connect to a network is a possible attack point for cybercriminals. Additionally, there are no security standards across all of these different devices. Many of them are made to be low-cost and could have security vulnerabilities.

Most IoT setups include a smart speaker, such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Smart speakers process large amounts of personal data. If these devices or the network they are connected to are not secure, your personal data could be leaked or stolen.

Safety Tips for Now and Later

• Make sure that your home network has a secure password. Many WiFi routers are manufactured with the same generic password that should be changed to a more secure one.
• Keep your computer, phone, and other devices up to date. Updates often help to fix any security issues or other vulnerabilities.

Be cautious about how much data you share online. AI can quickly process social media pages and other platforms to gather your personal information. This information can be used to target you with highly personalized phishing attacks.