Teleworking has become very common for many users. The technology that we have today, the high-capacity network connections, allow us to maintain virtual contact with coworkers and to be able to carry out our functions without having to be physically in the company. However this also brings problems if we do not take adequate measures. In this article we are going to talk about common attacks that affect users who telecommute.
Common attacks on telework
There are many attacks and threats that we can find when surfing the net. Many types of malware that in one way or another can compromise the security of our devices and ultimately affect privacy. Hackers often attack what is hosting the most users or something that is heavily used.
Precisely teleworking is something that is gaining a lot of weight in recent times. This also means that there are many new users who are beginning to perform their functions remotely. Many of them do not have adequate cybersecurity knowledge and can make mistakes.
That is precisely what hackers are looking for. They take advantage of vulnerabilities, from inexperienced users, to deploy their attacks. We are going to see what are the most common attacks that affect teleworking and that can put the safety of users at risk.
Phishing attacks
Without a doubt, Phishing attacks are very present in the network. As we know they are the techniques that hackers use to steal passwords and credentials from victims. They are based on identity theft of companies and organizations with the aim that users fall into the trap.
They are widely used attacks against users who work remotely. They may receive an email to access a specific service, download a file or program. However when they actually enter they are accessing a page controlled by attackers.
False updates
Another very common type of attack on remote workers is bogus updates . They may be from the operating system or some specific tool they are using to work.
What does this mean? Cyber criminals can launch false messages through pop-up windows, for example when browsing, where they indicate that it is necessary to update the system or some program. The problem is that by downloading that file we are actually installing malware on the computer.
Fraudulent tools
Of course they also take advantage of the tools that users use for teleworking. An example is the software to carry out videoconferences, for example. Hackers could cause users to install maliciously modified software or try to use possible plug-ins for those programs to attack.
It is important that we always use legitimate and up-to-date tools. In this way we can correct possible errors and vulnerabilities that affect us.
Computers not updated
Precisely vulnerabilities is something very important for cyber criminals. They can carry out attacks by taking advantage of network failures. This makes it vital to always have the equipment and tools that we use correctly updated. We need to have the latest patches so as not to compromise our systems in any way.
Scams on products and services
Users who telecommute may need to make use of certain products or services. The problem is that cyber criminals can take advantage of their use to attack. They may offer bogus products and services, solely for the purpose of collecting victim data and infecting the system.
Cloud attacks
Cloud platforms have gained a lot of weight in recent years. Teleworking has also pushed users to use more such services. But of course, they are also very attacked by cyber criminals. They take advantage of users storing relevant data and information in the cloud to try to steal.
It is important that we use correctly encrypted platforms and not make mistakes when uploading content.