3. 10. 2024
Telekom Slovenije’s Cybersecurity and Resilience Centre warns that this year is a record year for the number of cyber security incidents. In the first nine months of the year, they dealt with almost four times as many security incidents as in the same period last year. Online frauds and cyberattacks are targeting individuals as well as businesses and organisations, and Telekom Slovenije recommends implementing additional security services, such as the Varen splet security plan.
Most of the security incidents detected by experts at Telekom Slovenije's Cybersecurity and Resilience Centre, which protects users at the system level, are still related to incorrect actions taken by users, followed by so-called technical attacks, which follow the installation of malicious software such as viruses, worms, Trojans, adware, cryptocurrency mining programs, etc. Next on the list are malware, abuse of stolen data, abuse of rights, and discovered software vulnerabilities.
For greater security, the Varen splet security plan is available to users for use in their home and business environments. Users can simply activate it themselves, providing additional protection to their home network or on their internet-connected device. In August alone, Varen splet security plan protected its customers from more than 7.5 million attacks. Almost half of devices used by subscribers of the Varen splet plan would be at risk if they were not protected by the service. The most common threats were malware, followed by so-called CC attacks (C2 or Command & Control), which attempt to hack into a device and then use it as part of their own network of devices, and phishing attacks.
"Most security incidents are still the result of users being careless online, such as using the same passwords across different platforms. The abuse of stolen data, such as passwords and email addresses, is still common. RAAS (Ransomware as a Service) attacks, where attackers encrypt data and demand a ransom, are the prevalent types of attack. These attacks often originate from phishing, so in addition to a technical layer of protection, it is also essential to educate employees. Humans are the crucial factor in cybersecurity," says Rok Peršak, head of the Cybersecurity and Resilience Centre at Telekom Slovenije.
What can you do for your own cyber protection?
• Think before you visit suspicious websites. These sites often offer incredible deals that are usually scams to steal your credit card information and passwords.
• When shopping online, only enter personal information on trusted sites. Be especially careful when entering payment card data.
• Use different, strong passwords for different online accounts. Passwords should be at least 12, and preferably 16 characters long. Use a password manager and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Be aware of phishing emails – always check the sender and their email address. Do not click on links or open attachments in emails from unknown senders and never enter personal data, passwords, or card numbers in such messages, as service providers never collect them through such means.
• Enable website safety checks on your devices. Use services such as Telekom Slovenije's Varen splet security plan or the Varen poslovni splet for business customers that help protect your computer, mobile phone, tablet, etc., from being hacked.