8 Tips to Keep Your Email Safe
Email continues to be an essential tool in our daily lives. It allows us to communicate with friends and family and manage important matters related to work or many other aspects of our lives.
However, it is also one of the main targets of cyberattacks. Therefore, understanding the type of email security we need and applying appropriate measures can protect us from problems such as data theft or unauthorized access to our accounts.
In this article, we share practical tips to improve the security of your email and how to know if an email is secure. We'll also introduce you to Qondar as a solution that can help you keep your data safe.
8 Ways to Make Your Email Safe
From Enthec, we explain 8 ways to make your email safe
1. Choose strong, unique passwords
A strong password is your first line of defense. Although it may seem an essential tip, many people still use easy-to-guess passwords, such as "123456" or "password". To create a strong password:
- Use uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using personal data such as your birth date or pet's name.
- Make sure it's at least 12 characters long.
- Consider using a password manager to generate and store passwords securely.
Remember to change your passwords periodically and never reuse the same one on different accounts.
You may be interested in our publication→, How to Manage Passwords and Business Credentials Easily and Securely to Avoid Online Threats.
2. Turn on two-step verification (2FA)
Two-step verification is an email security measure that provides an extra protection layer. This system requires that you insert a temporary code sent to your phone or generated by an application such as Google Authenticator in addition to your password.
This method dramatically reduces the risk of someone accessing your account, even if they manage to get your password Be sure to enable this option on as many accounts as possible, especially those that contain sensitive information.
3. Beware of suspicious emails
Knowing how to identify a secure email is key to avoiding scams such as phishing, a type of attack in which cybercriminals try to trick you into sharing sensitive information.
If you have any questions about an email that seems suspicious, follow these simple steps:
- Check the sender's address. Attackers often use addresses that mimic well-known companies' addresses but with slight variations. For example, instead of "support@business.com," it could be "support@bus1ness.com."
- Look at the links. Before you click, hover over the link to check where it takes you. If it doesn't match the official site, be suspicious.
- Look for spelling or grammar errors. Phishing emails often contain errors that are not found in an official message.
- Don't share sensitive information. No serious entity will email you to ask for your password or banking information.
Don't respond or click on links if you receive a suspicious email. Instead, contact the sender directly through its official channels.
4. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks to access your email
Connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without security can expose your email to attacks. If you need to use a public connection, consider these options:
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
- Avoid accessing sensitive information while connected to these networks.
- Turn off the option to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks.
While convenient, public networks pose a significant risk to your privacy. If you have no alternative, use your mobile data connection to perform essential tasks.
5. Regularly update your devices and apps
Software updates bring new features and fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. Keep up to date:
- The operating system of your computer and phone.
- The email app or client you're using.
- The browsers you use to access your email.
Also, turn on automatic updates whenever possible to make sure you're protected from the latest threats
6. Make regular backups
Even if you take every precaution, there is always a risk of your account being hacked. Make regular backups of your important emails so you don't lose valuable information; you can use cloud services or save files on a secure external device.
Backups can help you recover your information in the event of an attack and are also helpful if you need to access your data offline.
7. Educate your household members about digital security
If you share devices with others, ensure everyone understands the importance of protecting personal information. Talk about the risks associated with opening suspicious emails or using weak passwords. Teaching safe practices to your family members can prevent mistakes that compromise everyone's safety.
8. Use advanced protection tools
Today, solutions such as Qondar can help you manage your email security more effectively. These tools detect potential threats and monitor whether your information appears in compromised databases. In this way, in real-time, you can detect threats such as compromised passwords for your professional or personal email and the breach that has caused the leak so that you can act before cybercriminals use them.
Qondar: Advanced protection for your emails and personal data
Qondar is a cyber surveillance solution designed for individual users who want to keep their information safe. As a Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) tool, Qondar allows you to:
- Detect potential vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them.
- Receive alerts on potential security compromises in real-time.
- Monitor the presence of your data in suspicious sources or underground networks.
With Qondar, you can have peace of mind knowing that your email and personal information are protected from digital threats.
Protecting your email security isn't complicated, but it requires consistency and the right tools. From choosing strong passwords to identifying suspicious emails, every step you take shields your privacy.
If you're looking for a complete solution to protect your personal information, Qondar is the ideal tool.
Don't leave your security to chance: start managing your threat exposure with Qondar and always keep your data safe.
Real-time vulnerability management: a step forward in cybersecurity
Vulnerability management has become one of the most critical elements within modern cybersecurity. With the increase in digital threats and the complexity of technology environments in recent years, identifying and mitigating risks in real-time is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
But what does this process consist of, and how can it help us protect our data, systems, and reputation?
What is vulnerability management?
Vulnerability management is the ongoing process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating weaknesses in an organization's computer systems and networks. These vulnerabilities can be software flaws, misconfigurations, or even human error that can lead to cyberattacks.
The main objective of this procedure is to correct faults and anticipate possible exploitations. In an environment where every second counts, the ability to act in real-time can mean the difference between preventing an incident and dealing with its consequences.
Why is it so essential to manage vulnerabilities in real-time?
New threats emerge daily, from ransomware and phishing to sophisticated targeted attacks that can go undetected for months. Managing vulnerabilities in real-time means quickly detecting and responding to these risks, minimizing the impact on the business.
Some of the most prominent benefits of an efficient vulnerability management process include:
- Reduced risk of attack. Identifying weak points before they can be exploited drastically reduces the likelihood of an incident.
- Compliance. Many regulations, such as the GDPR, require companies to implement proactive security measures to protect personal data.
- Cost savings. Preventing an attack is always cheaper than dealing with its consequences.
- Reputation protection. A single incident can severely damage customer and partner trust.
The vulnerability management process
Cybersecurity vulnerability management is not a one-time event but a continuous cycle of several stages. Each is essential to protect systems from known and emerging threats.
- Identification. The first step is to scan systems and networks and trace the external attack surface for potential vulnerabilities. This includes reviewing settings, software versions, and permissions. Also, locate open gaps and vulnerabilities exposed at the time they occur.
- Evaluation. Once identified, vulnerabilities are classified according to their severity and potential impact. This analysis allows you to prioritize the necessary actions.
- Reparation. Here, measures are taken to correct detected flaws, such as applying security patches, adjusting configurations, or educating staff on good practices.
- Continuous monitoring. Vulnerability management doesn't end after fixing an issue. It is crucial to maintain constant vigilance, if possible automated, to identify new vulnerabilities in real-time before they are exploited.
Real-time vulnerability management procedure
The traditional vulnerability management procedure needs to be improved in the face of today's rapid pace of threats. As a result, more and more organizations are adopting solutions that integrate real-time automated monitoring and immediate response capabilities.
Continuous threat exposure management (CTEM) tools are a clear example of this evolution. These solutions allow not only the identification of vulnerabilities but also the correlation of data, prioritize risks, and execute responses based on the criticality of each situation and the business's interest.
How to choose a solution for vulnerability management?
When looking for vulnerability management cybersecurity tools, it is critical to consider several factors:
- Integration capability: The solution must work with the existing technology ecosystem. The most evolved CTEM solutions work non-intrusively and do not need integration into the corporate system.
- Automation: Automatic processes for detection and remediation speed up responses and reduce errors.
- Clear Reporting: The ability to generate detailed reports helps justify cybersecurity investments and comply with audits.
- Scalability: The tool must grow along with the organization's needs.
Kartos and Qondar: Advanced Vulnerability Management Solutions
In this context, Enthec offers two cutting-edge solutions designed to address the challenges of today's cybersecurity:
- Kartos. Kartos is a comprehensive cyber surveillance solution for companies that allows continuous threat exposure management. Its approach proactively identifies, analyzes, and mitigates risks, helping organizations secure their data and systems and ensure business continuity.
- Qondar. Designed for individuals, Qondar provides personalized protection that allows people to control their digital presence and reduce the impact of threats such as identity theft or sensitive data exposure.
Both solutions stand out for their ability to operate in real-time, integrating advanced intelligence and automated processes that optimize the management of cybersecurity vulnerabilities. By choosing Kartos or Qondar, you will protect your assets and take a preventive and efficient approach to modern threats.
Protect your future with Enthec
Cybersecurity is no longer an option; it's a priority. Whether you're a business looking to protect sensitive data or an individual concerned about their privacy, Enthec's vulnerability management solutions are ideal.
With Kartos and Qondar, you'll be one step ahead of cybercriminals, ensuring your systems, information, and reputation are always protected. Discover how our solutions can transform your approach to cybersecurity and provide a safer digital environment for you and your organization.
Don't wait any longer! Visit Enthec and take the first step towards effective and reliable real-time vulnerability management.
Public image on the internet: how to Protect it from Digital Risks
We live in a digital age where our online presence is just as significant as our image in the real world. The "public image" is not limited to political figures or celebrities; anyone with profiles on social networks, blogs, or professional platforms has an image to care for. Protecting this public image is essential to maintaining a strong reputation, and cyber surveillance solutions like Qondar can help you manage and monitor your digital presence effectively.
But what is public image, and why should you pay attention to it?
What is online public image?
Public image is the perception that others have of you based on your actions, words, and shared content, primarily online. It can be defined as the impressions you leave on others through your behavior and digital presence.
Building a good public image online is essential to protecting your reputation and opening doors professionally and personally. This is where the power of public image comes into play: it allows you to connect, influence, and stand out in an increasingly competitive environment.
However, it also comes with risks. Mishandling your online presence can lead to cyberbullying, identity theft, or damage to your reputation. That's why, in today's article, we offer you practical tips to protect it.
How you can keep your public image safe
Some of the actions you can take to keep your public image protected are the following:
Review and update your privacy settings
The first step in protecting your public image is to ensure the safety of your personal information. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn offer personal privacy settings that allow you to control who can see your content.
- Regular check-up. Spend time checking what information is public and adjust it according to your needs.
- Avoid oversharing. Data such as your location, date of birth, or family details can be used against you.
Think before you post
Everything you share online remains recorded, even if you later delete it. Before posting a photo, comment, or review, ask yourself:
- Could this be misinterpreted?
- Am I sharing anything that could compromise my privacy or security?
- How will this impact my public image in the long run?
Taking this preventative approach can prevent problems in the future. Remember, what you post online stays online.
Google your name regularly
It's important to know what appears about you in search engines, as it's the first impression others will have when searching for you. If you find incorrect or harmful information, consider contacting the platform to request its removal or seek professional help.
Protect your accounts with strong passwords
The security of your online profiles is key to preventing identity theft or unauthorized access to your information. Use strong and different passwords for each account.
It complements this measure with two-step authentication, adding an extra security layer.
Maintain a professional profile
Your social media activity also reflects your public image. Even if you use your profiles personally, it's a good idea to maintain a respectful and professional tone.
- LinkedIn. Optimize your professional profile and make sure it is up to date.
- Personal networks. Take care of your interactions and avoid unnecessary discussions that can tarnish your reputation.
Learn to recognize online threats
The digital environment is full of risks, from phishing emails to identity theft on social networks. Being alert to these threats will help you protect your public image. Some warning signs include:
- Messages or emails that ask for confidential information.
- Fake profiles trying to gain access to your information.
- Comments or mentions that seek to provoke you to react.
Use cybersecurity tools
Cyber surveillance solutions like Qondar can make all the difference in proactively protecting your public image. These platforms monitor and manage your threat exposure in real-time.
Create a consistent digital presence
Maintain a consistent narrative across your social media and platforms. This doesn't mean that you should always share serious content, but it does mean that you should do it in a way aligned with the image you want to project.
- Delete old posts that no longer align with your current profile.
- Set a visual style and tone in your posts.
The importance of a solution like Qondar
Protecting your public image can be simple, especially if you have advanced solutions like Qondar. Designed for individuals, this Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) solution gives you complete control over your digital presence.
Qondar helps you:
- Monitor mentions and references to your name in real-time.
- Detect and manage potential risks before they become problems.
- Keep your public image aligned with your personal and professional goals.
If you need a more business-focused solution, Kartos is ideal for protecting corporate reputation and ensuring your organization's cybersecurity.
Protect what matters most: your reputation
Your online public image is a valuable asset that deserves to be protected. Applying these tips and having cyber surveillance solutions in place can make the difference between a strong reputation and a complex problem to solve. Don't underestimate the power of the public image; invest time and effort in caring for and strengthening it.
Start protecting your public image with Qondar today. Contact us and take the first step towards a safe and professional online presence.
How to protect your digital identity against major threats
Protecting our digital identity has become a priority. Our data is constantly exposed to risks from social networks to financial transactions. But do we know how to protect digital identity against the most common threats?
This article explains the main threats to digital identity, strategies to prevent them, and how specialized cyber surveillance solutions such as Qondar can improve protection.
What is digital identity, and why is it so important to protect it?
Your digital identity includes all your online personal information: names, passwords, emails, locations, bank details, photos, etc. This information forms the basis of your online interactions, and losing control of it can have serious consequences, from identity theft to financial loss.
We expand our digital footprint with every new account, online purchase, or social network. Cybercriminals, aware of this, develop increasingly sophisticated methods to steal and use this information for their purposes. If you're wondering why protecting your digital identity is essential, the answer lies in the serious repercussions that carelessness can have on your personal and professional life.
Top Threats to Digital Identity
To know how to protect your digital identity, it is essential that you discover the main threats.
Phishing
Phishing is one of the most common and effective attacks. Cybercriminals pose as trusted companies or individuals to trick you into obtaining your data. These attacks usually come via email, SMS, or even social networks.
For example, when you receive an email that appears to be from your bank asking you to verify your account using a link, you will make your credentials available to attackers.
How to protect yourself:
- Always check the sender's address.
- Never click on suspicious links.
- Use two-factor authentication whenever possible.
If you want to learn more about this prominent threat, we recommend you take a look→ Phishing: what it is and how many types there are.
Data leaks
Companies and online platforms are not exempt from security breaches. When this occurs, users' data may end up in the hands of unauthorized third parties.
To prevent data leakage, keep the following tips in mind:
- Change your passwords regularly.
- Use unique combinations for each account.
- Activate alerts to be alerted if your data appears in filtered databases.
Phishing and identity theft protection
With stolen data, cybercriminals can impersonate you. Thanks to this, they can carry out a large number of actions in your name, from opening bank accounts in their favor to making purchases or even committing crimes. This is one of the most common forms of identity theft, and its consequences can be devastating both financially and personally.
How to protect yourself:
- Keep your social media profile private.
- Avoid sharing unnecessary personal information online.
- Periodically review your bank accounts and financial movements.
Malware and spyware
Malware and spyware are malicious programs designed to access your device and collect information. Many times they are installed by downloading files from unsafe sources or clicking on unknown links.
How to protect yourself:
- Install reliable antivirus software.
- Avoid downloading files or apps from unofficial sites.
- Always keep your devices up to date.
Social media exposure
Posting too much personal information on social networks can make it easier for cybercriminals. From sharing your location to sensitive data, each post can be a piece of the puzzle of your digital identity.
How to protect yourself:
- Set your social media privacy.
- Think twice before sharing personal data or highly relevant information.
- Regularly review your profile settings.
Tips to protect your digital identity
In addition to being alert to the above threats, there are certain practices that you should implement in your day-to-day life to strengthen your digital security:
- Strong and unique passwords. It uses a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Tools like password managers can make this easier for you.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA). This method adds an extra layer of security.
- Constant updates. Ensure all your devices and apps are always updated with the latest versions.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi networks. If you need to use them, always do so with an active VPN.
- Constant monitoring. Keep regular control over your online accounts and data.
These steps are a great place to start if you want to implement actions to protect your digital identity.
Qondar: your ally to protect your digital identity
Despite all the precautions we may have, cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to attack. This is where specialized solutions such as Enthec's Qondar play a crucial role.
Qondar specializes in individual profiles and is a Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) solution designed to protect your digital identity. Its primary function is constantly monitoring your online presence to identify risks and alert you before a problem occurs.
What does Qondar offer?
- Early detection of threats. Identify if your data is exposed in leaked databases, dark networks, or other dangerous sources.
- Personalized alerts. You'll receive immediate notifications when a risk related to your digital identity is detected.
- Clear reports and actions to be taken. Detailed information about detected threats and recommended steps to protect yourself.
- Proactive protection. Qondar helps you foresee and prevent problems before they become obstacles.
Why choose Qondar
In such a dynamic and complex digital environment, Qondar stands out for its focus on prevention and continuous monitoring. It's more than a solution, it's a shield that protects you from major digital threats.
If you value your privacy and want to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals, Qondar is the perfect solution. Plus, backed by Enthec's expertise, you can trust its effectiveness and commitment to security.
Protecting your digital identity isn't optional; it's necessary today. You can take control of your online security by understanding the main threats, adopting preventive measures, and relying on specialized solutions like Qondar.
Don't leave your digital identity to chance. Discover ways to protect your digital identity and how Qondar can help you protect yourself effectively and easily. Act now and always stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
Social engineering attacks on senior executives
Senior executives are desirable targets for social engineering attacks because they can access sensitive information and influence within the organization.
How Social Engineering Works
Social engineering is a psychological manipulation technique that cybercriminals use to trick people into revealing sensitive information or taking actions that compromise security. Unlike technical attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in systems and software, social engineering focuses on exploiting human vulnerabilities.
These attacks have the highest success rate because people are the weakest link in the cybersecurity chain.
Social engineering is based on exploiting psychological principles and human behaviors that are difficult for us to ignore. Attackers use a variety of tactics to manipulate their victims, taking advantage of factors such as trust, fear, curiosity, and urgency.
- Confidence. The attackers pose as people or entities the victim trusts to win them over and not raise their suspicions. They may impersonate colleagues, service providers, bank representatives, friends, and family. In this way, it is easy for them to persuade the victim to perform the action they are interested in.
- Authority. Cybercriminals pose as authority figures, such as CEOs, managers, or law enforcement representatives, to intimidate the victim into complying with their demands. The perception of authority makes people more likely to obey without question.
- Urgency. Creating a sense of urgency is a widespread tactic in social engineering. Attackers convey that immediate action is needed to avoid a negative consequence. The urgency and magnitude of the negative repercussions cause people to act quickly without taking the time to verify the authenticity of the request.
- Curiosity. Attackers use human curiosity to lure victims into malicious downloads or links through intriguing or sensational subjects.
- Fear. Fear is a potent tool in social engineering. Attackers threaten serious consequences, such as the disclosure of compromising information or the loss of money, to coerce the victim into complying with their demands.
The success of social engineering lies in the fact that victims have to fight against the instinctive reactions dictated by their own human nature to deal with it.
What is a social engineering attack?
As we've already seen, social engineering attacks are tactics cybercriminals use to manipulate people into revealing sensitive information or taking actions that compromise an organization's security.
These attacks are based on psychological manipulation and deception, taking advantage of the victims' trust, fear, curiosity, and urgency. Cybercriminals use various techniques to carry out these attacks, and senior executives are frequent targets due to their access to sensitive information and their influence within the organization.
Main characteristics of a social engineering attack
As characteristics of social engineering attacks, we highlight the following:
- Psychological manipulation: attackers use psychological manipulation techniques to influence the victim's behavior. These techniques include impersonating a trusted person, creating a sense of urgency, or tapping into the victim's curiosity.
- Deception: Social engineering attacks often involve deception to trick the victim into revealing sensitive information or taking harmful actions. Deceptions include sending fraudulent emails, creating fake websites, or making false phone calls.
- Exploitation of human vulnerabilities: Unlike technical attacks, which focus on vulnerabilities in systems and software, social engineering attacks focus on human vulnerabilities and create the necessary and sufficient context to exploit them successfully.
Successful social engineering attacks have severe consequences for organizations. These potential consequences include the loss of confidential information, reputational damage, financial losses, and compromised information security and corporate systems.
Senior executives are desirable targets for cybercriminals due to their access to sensitive information and influence within the organization. Understanding these attacks is crucial to developing effective prevention and protection strategies.
Types of Social Engineering Attacks on Senior Executives
The basis of all these types of attacks is social engineering, and they differ in the way it is carried out:
Phishing
Phishing is one of the most common types of social engineering attacks. It involves sending scam emails that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, service providers, or even coworkers. The objective is to trick the victim into performing the specific action that interests the attacker.
Discover our post→ Phishing: what it is and how many types there are.
Baiting
Baiting seeks to lure the victim with a tempting offer to enter a fraudulent page and leave relevant data there or to download an attachment in the email with an attractive and harmless title.
Brand Impersonation
Brand spoofing is an increasingly common technique whereby attackers create fake websites or social media profiles that mimic legitimate organizations. Senior executives may be directed to these counterfeit sites through phishing emails or online advertisements so that they interact with them, thinking they are the real thing.
Surely you are interested→ Brand protection: strategies to prevent fraudulent use.
BEC Attack
The BEC (Business Email Compromise) attack is a type of fraud in which attackers impersonate senior executives or trusted vendors to trick employees or other executives into making money transfers or divulging sensitive information. These attacks are often very targeted and well-researched, making them particularly dangerous.
Vishing or Smishing
Vishing (voice phishing) and smishing (SMS phishing) are variants of phishing that use phone calls or text messages to trick the victim. Attackers may impersonate bank representatives, service providers, or co-workers to obtain sensitive information or convince the victim to take harmful actions. The evolution of new technologies is behind the sophistication of this type of attack.
Quid Pro Quo
Quid pro quo involves offering something, usually helping in a made-up problem caused by the attacker himself, in exchange for information or access. Senior executives, who are often busy and may not have time to verify the authenticity of the situation, are ideal targets for this type of attack.
How to avoid social engineering attacks
Avoiding social engineering attacks is achieved by combining strategies to protect corporate systems and strategies to train people. This ensures that they master instinctive reactions and use analytical skills first, whatever the scenario presented to them.
Implement access control policies
Implement access control policies
Implementing strict access control policies is one of the most effective ways to prevent social engineering attacks. These policies should clearly define who has access to information and under what circumstances. Some key measures include:
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA). Users must provide two or more verification forms before accessing sensitive systems or data. These can include something that the user knows (password), something that the user has (security token), or something inseparable from the user's own (fingerprint, face, etc.). This makes access difficult, as is the transfer of credentials to third parties under deception.
- Principle of least privilege. Limit access to information and resources to only those employees who need it to do their jobs. This reduces the attack surface and minimizes the risk of sensitive information falling into the wrong hands. This is a difficult point to define concerning senior executives.
- Regular review and audit. Conduct regular audits to review access permissions and ensure only authorized individuals can access critical information.
Conduct security training
Security training is essential to help senior executives and all employees recognize and prevent social engineering attacks. For senior executives, the training must be specific to their level of information and performance.
Some effective strategies include:
- Phishing simulations. Conduct phishing attack simulations to educate executives on identifying fraudulent emails and what to do if they receive one.
- Workshops and seminars. Organize regular workshops and seminars on the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices to protect against them.
- Clear reporting policies. Establish clear guidelines for reporting suspicious incidents and ensure executives know where, how, and who to turn to if they suspect an attack.
Employ cybersecurity or cyber intelligence technologies
The use of advanced cybersecurity and cyber intelligence technologies helps to detect and prevent social engineering attacks effectively. These technologies provide an additional layer of protection when managing threat exposure.
Some of these technologies are:
Phishing detection systems
Use software that scans incoming emails for signs of phishing, such as malicious links or suspicious senders. These tools block fraudulent emails before they reach the user's inbox.
Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)
Implement systems that monitor network traffic in real time and detect suspicious activity that may indicate an attempted attack. These systems automatically block malicious traffic and alert security administrators.
Behavioral Analysis
Use behavioral analysis tools to monitor user activities and detect unusual patterns indicating a social engineering attack. This way, the system can generate an alert if a senior executive tries to access information they don't usually use.
Monitoring of all layers of the web
Employ cyber intelligence solutions to monitor the web, deep web, and dark web, including social media and forums, for mentions of the organization or its senior executives and exposed corporate or personal information that can be used to design the social engineering attack.
These tools identify potential threats before they materialize and enable the organization to take preventative and mitigating measures.
Enthec helps you strengthen the protection of your organization and its senior executives against social engineering
Enthec`s threat exposure management solutions allow your organization to implement a proactive security and protection approach that completes its cybersecurity strategy.
Enthec's technology's capabilities for detecting the theft of corporate and personal identities, the location of exposed sensitive information, and the guarantee of eliminating false positives make it a unique weapon against social engineering attacks.
If you need more information on how Enthec can help protect your organization, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Deepfakes: what they are and how to detect them
In the digital information age, artificial intelligence (AI) has enabled surprising manipulation of images, videos, and audio. This advancement has given rise to deepfakes, which impresses its realism but raises ethical and safety concerns.
If you've ever wondered, "Deepfakes, what exactly is that?" here's what they are, how they work, and most importantly, how you can spot them.
What are deepfakes?
The term "deepfake" comes from the combination of two words: "deep learning" and "fake". It refers to media content manipulated using artificial intelligence algorithms, specifically deep neural networks, to create a highly realistic version of something that didn't happen.
In other words, deepfakes allow you to change faces, voices, or even movements in videos and audio, making it seem that a person said or did something that never happened. For example, you might see a celebrity singing a song they never performed or a politician giving a fake speech.
How do deepfakes work?
Deepfake AI is generated using advanced deep learning technologies. This involves training the AI with large amounts of data, such as images, videos, and audio of a person so that the machine learns to replicate their gestures, tone of voice, and facial expressions.
This process uses techniques such as GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks), which pit two neural networks against each other: one generates fake content, and the other evaluates its authenticity, improving the result with each iteration.
Thanks to tools accessible on the Internet, creating fake images has become easier. In the past, creating a deepfake required advanced programming skills and expensive equipment, but today, anyone with access to certain applications can generate a manipulated video.
Why are deepfakes dangerous?
Now that you know what deepfakes are and how they work, we must emphasize that although this technology has positive applications, such as in the entertainment, education, or marketing industry, its dark side is undeniable. Deepfakes have been used to spread fake news, impersonate identities, and even extort people.
Impact on society
- Spreading disinformation. Deepfakes have become perfect tools for disinformation campaigns. Manipulating a video to make someone believe something fake is true can have serious consequences, especially during elections or social crises.
- Reputational damage. A fake image or video can ruin the reputation of a public figure or any individual, affecting their personal and professional lives.
- Cyberbullying and fraud. Deepfakes have been used to create non-consensual content or to trick people into fraudulent activities.
The 5 steps to detect a deepfake
Although they are becoming more and more realistic, deepfakes are not infallible. A few tricks exist to identify these fake images and protect yourself from deception.
- Notice the details of the face: Deepfakes often fail in subtle aspects, such as eye blinking, lip-syncing, or natural eyebrow movement. If a video seems strange, pay attention to these details.
- Analyze the audio: In manipulated audio, the intonation and rhythm of speech can sound mechanical or unnatural. Listen carefully if something doesn't fit.
- Look for inconsistencies in lighting: errors in shadows or reflections are usually common in deepfakes. It is likely false if the face's lighting does not match the environment.
- Use specialized tools: Currently, platforms are designed to analyze whether a video or image has been manipulated. Cybersecurity tools such as Deepware Scanner or InVID can help verify the authenticity of the content.
- Trust official sources: Verify the information with reliable sources before believing dubious content. In many cases, deepfakes are designed to manipulate you emotionally and provoke immediate reactions.
What to do if you find a deepfake
If you suspect you have found a deepfake, the first thing to do is not share it. Spreading false content, even without malicious intent, can contribute to the problem. Instead, report it on the appropriate platforms or notify the affected person if possible.
In addition, implementing cybersecurity policies and conducting training on deepfake detection can make a difference in corporate environments.
How can we help you at Enthec?
At Enthec, we know the challenges deepfakes pose to individuals. We provide cyber surveillance solutions for people who detect and prevent digital manipulation.
The impact of deepfakes is real, but with the right solutions, you can stay one step ahead. Contact us and protect what matters most: your credibility and security.
In a world where making someone believe something false is true has become so simple, prevention and knowledge are your best allies. Don't let deepfakes fool you: identify, protect, and take action
Trust Enthec to keep you safe in the digital environment.
The Relevance of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a key player for many people in different personal and professional areas, but we must also know its ability to protect us against digital threats.
From businesses to individuals, we are all exposed to constantly evolving cyberattacks, where the combination of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence plays a decisive role. AI applied to cybersecurity improves the ability to detect and prevent threats, allowing a more efficient and faster response to possible attacks.
In this article, we will discover why artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are so closely linked, the applications of this technology, and its positive impact on our daily lives.
Why is artificial intelligence critical in cybersecurity?
The cyber threat landscape has become increasingly complex. Cybercriminals employ advanced techniques to breach systems, from malware and phishing to sophisticated targeted attacks. In the face of this, although helpful, traditional cybersecurity tools, such as antivirus and firewalls, are no longer enough.
You may be interested in→ Top cybersecurity tools to use in your business.
Artificial intelligence for cybersecurity stands out because it can:
- Analyze large volumes of data in record time.
- Detect suspicious patterns that might go unnoticed by humans.
- Constantly learning and adapting to improve its effectiveness.
The key is their ability to act proactively and automatically, making the defense barriers more dynamic in the face of constantly changing threats.
Applications of AI for cybersecurity
Artificial intelligence applied to cybersecurity has a range of applications ranging from threat detection to response automation. Here are some of the highlights:
Real-time threat detection
Advanced algorithms allow AI to analyze data traffic and detect anomalous behavior in real-time. For example, it can identify an attempted intrusion into a network before it causes damage. This significantly reduces reaction times and mitigates potential risks.
In this context, platforms such as Kartos offer an additional layer of protection by detecting in real-time the sensitive information of an organization or person that is publicly exposed and available to anyone. These alerts prevent their misuse in designing targeted attacks or committing fraud, thus proactively strengthening the security posture.
Attack prevention
AI can anticipate attackers' movements by studying previous patterns. From here, it is possible to create more robust systems designed to prevent attacks before they occur. For example, some AI models can identify phishing emails even if they use advanced spoofing techniques.
Response Automation
When an attack is detected, AI can automatically make decisions, such as blocking unauthorized access or neutralizing malware. By acting immediately, AI saves time and minimizes potential damage.
Information protection
AI is also crucial for protecting sensitive business and user data. You can detect data extraction attempts or unauthorized access by analyzing access patterns and blocking them in real-time.
Benefits of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity
Combining cybersecurity and artificial intelligence offers numerous benefits that improve protection and optimize available resources. Here are some of the most important ones:
Early Threat Detection
One of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity is identifying a threat before it causes damage. AI can analyze large amounts of data in seconds, making it possible to detect anomalies that might go undetected with traditional methods.
Prevention of human error
Human error is one of the leading causes of cyberattacks. Weak passwords clicks on suspicious links, and incorrect configurations are gateways for attackers. AI helps minimize these risks by automating tasks and alerting them to unsafe behaviors.
Adaptability
As attackers develop new techniques, AI systems can adapt quickly, learning from each attack attempt to strengthen defenses. This ensures that protective measures are always one step ahead.
The future of artificial intelligence applied to cybersecurity
The role of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity will only grow in the coming years. With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), the number of connected devices will increase, expanding the attack surface. AI will be instrumental in managing this complexity and developing more innovative, personalized solutions.
In addition, collaboration between humans and machines will be essential. Although AI is powerful, it does not replace human judgment. Instead, it amplifies our capabilities, allowing cybersecurity experts to focus on more strategic tasks.
Enthec: your expert partner in cyber-surveillance
At Enthec, we know that companies and individuals face unique challenges in cybersecurity. That's why we've developed specialized solutions through our platforms: Kartos, designed to protect businesses, and Qondar, focused on individual security. Both use artificial intelligence, which is applied to cybersecurity through threat watchbots.
Kartos, a cyber-surveillance platform for companies, helps your organization detect publicly leaked information in real-time, thus locating open and exposed security breaches.
On the other hand, Qondar focuses on protecting individuals from digital threats that can compromise their personal information, privacy, and peace of mind. It continuously and automatically monitors people's sensitive information and digital assets to protect individual privacy and prevent criminal or harmful use.
In a world where threats constantly evolve, intelligent tools like Kartos and Qondar are not a luxury but a necessity. Whether you're looking to protect your organization's data or your personal information, Enthec is here to help keep you safe.
The combination of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity is the key to facing the challenges of the digital world. With Enthec, you're one step away from the cybersecurity of the future.
What are you waiting for to leap with Kartos and Qondar? Together, we can protect your business and yourself. Contact us!
5 social media security strategies
With the evolution of technology and its general implementation in all areas of individual action, security on social networks is essential to protect personal information and avoid various cyber threats that can endanger people's personal and patrimonial integrity.
Importance of privacy and security in social networks
Social media has become integral to our lives, allowing us to connect with friends, family, and coworkers, share experiences, and access various content. However, with its increasing use, the amount of personal information we share online has also increased.
Therefore, privacy and security on social networks are crucial to protect our personal information from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and other threats.
In addition, it allows users to control what information is shared, when, how, and with whom. This includes personal details such as location, wealth, interests, ideology, relationships, etc. Without proper security measures, cybercriminals can exploit this data for malicious activities such as identity theft, fraud, and harassment.
Conversely, a lack of privacy can lead to a loss of control over personal information, exposing users and their contacts to significant risks.
Social media security is also vital to protecting account integrity and preventing unauthorized access. Implementing robust security strategies helps prevent attackers from taking over accounts, stealing personal information, or conducting malicious activities on behalf of the victim.
Consequence of not protecting your social networks
Failing to implement social media security measures can have serious consequences. Some of the main ones are:
- Identity theft. Cybercriminals can obtain enough personal information from social media to impersonate the person and commit fraud. This can lead to opening credit accounts in your name, making fraudulent purchases, deceiving contacts, and many other malicious actions.
- Harassment and cyberbullying. A lack of privacy can expose users to harassment and cyberbullying. Attackers often use personal information shared on social media to harass their victims.
- Financial fraud. Personal and financial data shared on social media can be used to commit fraud. This includes accessing bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial services and other actions likely to cause significant financial loss to the victim.
- Loss of reputation. Personal and professional information exposed on social media can be used to damage a person's reputation. This is especially detrimental to professionals who depend on their reputations for their careers.
- Unauthorized access to sensitive data. If not properly protected, social media accounts can be hacked, and sensitive data, such as private messages and photos, are exposed and susceptible to malicious use.
5 Social Media Safety Measures
The following measures must be implemented, at minimum, to protect personal information and maintain security on social media.
Privacy settings on profiles
Privacy settings on social media profiles allow users to control who can view and access their information. Reviewing and adjusting these settings regularly ensures that only authorized people can see personal details.
- Limiting access to personal information: ensuring that only close contacts and family members can see personal information such as location, marital status, and contact details.
- App Permissions Review: It is essential to be aware that third-party apps connecting to social media accounts may have access to significant personal data. Non-essential apps should be reviewed, and permissions should be revoked.
- Post control: It's a good idea to set up your account so that only the owner can view and approve posts in which they are tagged. This will give you control over what appears on your profile.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security measure that protects social media accounts. Requiring a second form of verification in addition to the password, 2FA makes it harder for attackers to access an account, even if they know your password.
- 2FA implementation. Two-factor authentication must be enabled on all social media accounts. This usually involves receiving a verification code on the mobile phone or email.
- Authenticator apps. There are authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy that generate temporary, one-time verification codes to access the account.
Secure password management
Strong, unique passwords are critical to protecting social media accounts. Reusing or using weak passwords significantly increases the risk of an account being hacked.
- Strong passwords. It would be best to create passwords that are difficult to guess, using a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable personal information such as names or dates of birth and passwords that are common or repeated in other accounts.
- Password managers. Using a password manager to generate and store unique and strong passwords for each account is advisable. This makes password management easier and reduces the risk of reusing passwords.
- Periodic password changes. Although it is a routine that involves mental effort and conservation due to the number of accounts and passwords each person manages, it is essential to change passwords periodically and never share them with others or store them in places that are easy for others to reach.
Never access from third-party devices
Accessing social media accounts from third-party devices, such as public computers or borrowed devices, can put your security at risk. These devices can be compromised, and access credentials can be recorded and stored. We advise you to take into account the following recommendations.
- Use of trusted devices. Social media accounts should be accessed only from trusted devices protected by antivirus and firewalls.
- Logout. Always log out of social media accounts after using them, especially on shared or public devices.
- Safe browsing. It is advisable to use private or incognito browsing modes when accessing accounts from devices that do not belong to the owner to prevent browsing data and credentials from being saved.
Setting up a cyber surveillance system
The most innovative cyber-surveillance tools enable continuous monitoring of social media accounts and their online activity to quickly detect and respond to potential security threats. This helps prevent malicious or criminal use of both social media accounts and personal data.
The cyber surveillance system allows the user to set up alerts for suspicious activity. This way, you can receive real-time notifications about any suspicious activity on your social media accounts, such as login attempts from unknown locations or posts of unusual content.
How Qondar can help you improve social media security
Qondar Personal Threat Watchbots is the innovative cyber surveillance platform developed by Enthec for the online protection of people's personal data and digital assets. Thanks to its army of bots deployed across all layers of the Web, Qondar protects the integrity of personal profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram and Telegram against hacking and manipulation. Qondar is an automated tool that works continuously and provides real-time data on any attempted malicious use of personal social networks. Its use is also very simple: just enter the social profiles to be protected on the platform and Qondar begins to work autonomously. If you hold an important position in an organization, have public or social relevance, or are simply concerned about the integrity of your social media accounts, contact us to learn more about how Qondar can help you.
How can your credit card data be stolen?
With the proliferation of online commerce, credit card data theft has become a common crime. Billions of compromised data, such as these data, passwords, and bank accounts, are bought and sold on the Dark Web, and it is estimated that up to 24 billion illegally leaked data circulate there.
Theft of credit card data in non-face-to-face transactions
In recent years, EMV systems have been implemented to prevent the physical cloning of credit cards. EMV is a payment method based on a technical standard for smart payment cards, payment terminals, and ATMs that can accept them. EMV stands for "Europay, Mastercard, and Visa," the three companies that created the standard.
That's why credit card vulnerabilities are more common during card-not-present (CNP) transactions.
Most common ways to execute the theft of credit card data.
Cybercriminals use the evolution of technology to sophisticate their attacks and execute credit card data theft in online transactions.
Phishing
Phishing is a scam in which a cybercriminal impersonates a legitimate entity (e.g., a bank, e-commerce provider, or technology company) to trick a user into entering personal data or downloading malware without realizing it.
Web Skimming
This is malicious code that is installed on e-commerce site payment pages. The code is invisible to the user and can steal compromised bank account data.
Free public WiFi Network
Cybercriminals can access a network to steal third-party credit card details as the cardholder enters them. These networks are usually free public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Data Leak
There have been leaks of compromised data from companies that have suffered an attack on database systems. This method of obtaining data is more cost-effective from the criminals' perspective, as they gain access to a large amount of data through an attack.
Qondar helps you protect your credit card data
Qondar Personal Threat Watchbots is the cyber surveillance platform developed by Enthec for the online protection of people. Among many other capabilities, Qondar automatically and continuously monitors your credit card data on the Web, Dark Web and Deep Web to detect any leaks and fraudulent online use. In addition, Qondar issues alarms in real time, in order to cancel or minimize the negative impact of the filtration of said data. If you want more information on how Qondar can help you control the fraudulent use of your credit cards, contact us.
Importance of Personal Privacy in the Digital Age
Personal privacy in the digital age is a critical aspect that requires constant attention and proactive measures on the part of people with some online activity, asset, or information.
What is personal privacy?
Personal privacy refers to an individual's ability to control information about their life and decide what data can be shared, under what conditions, when, and with whom.
Maintaining personal privacy has become increasingly challenging in a world where technology and connectivity are ubiquitous. Privacy is not just a matter of keeping information protected but of ensuring everyone has the right to decide how their information is used and who has access to it.
National and international legislation protects individuals' privacy rights, focusing on personal online privacy. These regulations are the basis of the right to personal privacy and of each person's responsibility to ensure one's privacy and to exercise and demand the necessary actions to protect it to the level that each one considers.
Characteristics of Digital Personal Privacy
Digital personal privacy is characterized by several key elements that must be formalized together to guarantee it in the terms set out by law.
- Data Control. People should be able to control what information is collected, how it is used, and with whom it is shared. This includes access to their own data and the ability to correct inaccurate information or delete information they do not wish to share.
- Transparency. Organizations that collect data must be transparent about their practices. This involves informing users about the data collected, its purpose, and how it will be protected.
- Information security. Protecting personal data is critical to preventing unauthorized access, identity theft, and other forms of abuse. Appropriate security measures, such as encryption and strong passwords, must be guaranteed.
- Informed consent. The individual must give explicit consent before personal data is collected or shared. This consent must be informed, which means that the individual must clearly understand what their data will be used for and their consent's implications regarding their privacy.
- Right to erasure. In some cases, individuals should have the right to have their data removed from databases and systems where it is no longer needed or where consent has been withdrawn.
Personal Information Privacy Concerns and Crimes in the Digital Age
The digital age has brought with it several concerns and crimes that affect the privacy of personal information. Some of the main problems to be addressed are:
Artificial intelligence algorithms
Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms analyze large volumes of data to identify threats and make decisions. While this capability is beneficial in many ways, it also poses privacy risks. Algorithms can collect and analyze personal data without the user's knowledge or consent, which can lead to discrimination, loss of privacy, and misuse of information.
Mass privacy surveillance
Mass surveillance is the extensive collection and monitoring of data on individuals or groups by governments, corporations, or other entities. This surveillance can include data collection from telecommunications, social media, security cameras, and more.
Mass surveillance is likely to invade people's privacy and undermine trust in the institutions that collect and use this data.
Impersonation
Phishing occurs when someone steals personal information, such as names, social security numbers, credit card information, and images, to impersonate someone else.
This crime can have serious consequences, including financial loss, the need for legal defense, reputational damage, and difficulty accessing essential services.
Scams and frauds
Online scams and frauds constantly threaten personal privacy. Cybercriminals use various tactics to trick people into giving them access to their personal and financial data, including phishing, vishing (phone scams), and smishing (text message scams).
Hate crimes
Hate crimes in the digital environment include harassment, threats, and defamation directed at individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Not only do these crimes violate victims' privacy, but they also have a significant impact on their emotional and psychological well-being.
Crimes against privacy
Privacy crimes include the unauthorized disclosure of personal information, such as intimate data, images, or videos, without the consent of the person concerned. It can happen through hacks, vindictive people, or even dishonest employees with access to personal data. The consequences are often devastating, affecting the victim's reputation, personal relationships, and mental health.
How to protect personal privacy
Protecting personal privacy online requires awareness of the need and a proactive approach. Some practical measures to implement such protection are:
- Education and awareness. Staying informed and up-to-date on privacy threats and best practices for protecting personal information is the first step in knowing what protection tools and routines to adopt.
- Use of privacy tools. Privacy tools, such as secure browsers, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), and encryption software, designed to protect online data, help keep online communications and activities private.
- Social media privacy settings. It is advisable to adjust the privacy settings on all social media accounts to limit who can view and access personal information and to review and update those settings regularly. Be aware of the actual scope we seek or intend and the nature of the account (professional account versus personal accounts) and adjust the information dumped and privacy to them
- Strong passwords and multi-factor authentication. Although sometimes uncomfortable, using strong and unique passwords for each online account is essential. In addition, multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be enabled whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to the password.
- Review of application permissions. Review of application permissions. Before installing an application, you should carefully review the permissions it requests and make sure that they are necessary for its operation. With this information, you should limit your apps' access to personal information as much as possible
- Monitoring suspicious activity. It is advisable to set up alerts for activities, usual or not, on financial accounts and other essential services. In addition, in the case of people of social or economic relevance, with a large amount of very sensitive data dumped on the network, it is advisable to use solutions to monitor online personal information and digital assets to detect possible privacy threats that involve their criminal use
- Be alert to suspicious emails, messages, and links. You should never open emails or messages from unknown senders or click on links that you are not 100% sure of. Cybercriminals use phishing techniques to trick people into stealing their personal information.
- Right to erasure. If someone considers that a company should no longer have his or her personal data, he or she can and should request that it be deleted. Many legislations, such as the GDPR in Europe, grant this right to individuals.
Qondar: Enthec's platform that helps you protect your privacy
Qondar Personal Threat Watcbots is the innovative solution developed by Enthec to respond to the growing need for online protection of individual personal privacy. Qondar continuously and automatically monitors people's sensitive information and digital assets to protect personal privacy and prevent criminal or harmful use.
Thanks to this solution, the protected person receives real-time alerts of leaks and public exposures of their sensitive data so that they can remediate them and prevent them from being used criminally against them.
Contact us to learn more about how Qondar can help you protect your privacy or that of relevant people in your organization.
Risks of AI in people's online safety
Artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms the cybersecurity landscape, presenting opportunities and significant challenges.
This article examines how AI risks impact people's online safety, identifies the most relevant dangers, and offers tips on protecting yourself from these risks.
How is the development of AI affecting people's online safety?
The development of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing online security, transforming both opportunities and challenges in the digital realm. AI's ability to process and analyze large volumes of data, identify patterns, and learn from them brings significant benefits. Still, it is also creating new vulnerabilities and threats that affect people.
One of the most apparent aspects of AI's positive impact on online security is the automation of threat detection. AI-based cybersecurity tools can monitor in real-time and detect anomalous behavior, identify fraud attempts, and detect malicious attacks before they cause considerable damage.
This has dramatically improved incident response capabilities and reduced the time needed to neutralize threats. For individual users, this translates into more excellent protection of their personal and financial data held by companies.
New AI-Driven Threats
However, cybercriminals also leverage AI to improve their targeted attack tactics, which target a specific person rather than an organization.
The creation of deepfakes, for example, uses AI algorithms to generate fake images, videos, or audio that are almost indistinguishable from the real thing. These deepfakes can be used to spread false information, impersonate people in critical situations, or even commit fraud and extortion. AI's ability to replicate human voices has also given rise to highly convincing voice scams, where scammers pose as family members or authority figures to trick their victims.
Another significant risk is the exploitation of vulnerabilities in social networks. AI can analyze profiles and behaviors on these platforms to identify potential targets, collect personal information, and launch targeted attacks. AI-powered bots can also amplify disinformation campaigns and manipulate public opinion, affecting the security of personal data and the integrity of the information we consume.
To mitigate these risks, users must adopt robust security practices. This includes ongoing education about emerging threats and verifying sources before sharing information.
Using advanced security tools that integrate AI capabilities can provide a proactive defense against sophisticated attacks. In addition, being selective about the personal information shared online and adjusting privacy settings on social media can limit exposure to potential threats.
The most relevant dangers of AI
Among the most relevant risks of Artificial Intelligence, we highlight the following.
Creation of deepfakes and digital fakes
Deepfakes are videos or audio created using AI that manipulate images or voices to make them look real. They can be used to spread disinformation, extort people, or even manipulate electoral processes. Digital counterfeits can also be used to impersonate individuals in critical situations.
Voice scams
With the ability to replicate human voices, scammers can impersonate trusted individuals, such as family members or colleagues, to trick their victims into obtaining sensitive information or money. These scams can be extremely convincing and complex to detect without proper tools.
Impersonation
AI can collect and analyze personal information from various online sources, facilitating the creation of fake profiles used to commit fraud and other malicious activities. Phishing is a growing threat in the digital age, exacerbated by AI's capabilities.
Social Media Vulnerabilities
Social media is fertile ground for the exploitation of AI. Cybercriminals can use AI algorithms to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in these platforms, from creating fake profiles to spreading malware. In addition, they can use bots to amplify malicious messages and manipulate public opinions.
Financial Fraud
AI is also being used to commit financial fraud. From creating highly personalized phishing emails to automating fraudulent transactions, cybercriminals use AI to bypass traditional security systems and steal money and financial data.
Ethical and legal risks
The use of AI in cybersecurity poses several ethical and legal risks. AI's ability to make autonomous decisions can lead to situations where privacy rights are violated, or mistakes are made with serious consequences. In addition, the misuse of AI for malicious activities poses significant legal challenges, as current laws are often ill-equipped to address these issues.
How to protect yourself from AI risks
Protecting yourself from AI-related personal online security risks requires education, advanced tools, robust security practices, and collaboration.
Education and Awareness
The foundation of good online security is education. Knowing the risks and how to deal with them is essential. People also need to stay informed about cybercriminals' latest tactics, such as using AI.
Participating in online courses, webinars, and reading blogs specializing in cybersecurity are effective ways to stay current. Continuing education allows us to recognize warning signs and respond appropriately to threats.
Source and Authenticity Verification
One of the most significant risks today is digital deepfakes, which use AI to create fake content that looks real. To protect yourself, it's crucial to always verify the authenticity of information before sharing or acting on it.
Verification tools, such as services that verify the authenticity of news and emails, can help identify and prevent deception.
Use Advanced Security Tools
Numerous security tools use AI to provide advanced protection. These include antivirus software, malware detection programs, and mobile security apps. These tools can analyze behavior in real-time, detect suspicious patterns, and alert users to potentially dangerous activities.
It's essential always to keep these tools current to ensure they're equipped to deal with the latest threats.
Protection of personal data
The protection of personal data is critical in today's digital environment. People should be cautious about the information they share online. Setting your social media privacy settings to limit who can see and access personal information is essential.
It is critical to use strong, unique passwords for each account and change them regularly. Additionally, using password managers can help maintain security without the need to remember multiple passwords.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security. In addition to a password, MFA requires a second verification form, such as a code sent to a mobile phone. This makes it difficult for attackers to access the accounts, even if they manage to obtain the password. Implementing MFA on all possible accounts is an effective measure to increase security.
Constant monitoring
Constant monitoring of accounts and online activity can help quickly detect unusual behavior. Setting up alerts for suspicious activity, such as login attempts from unrecognized locations, allows you to act immediately.
Some services monitor the use of personal information on the dark web and alert users if their data is at risk.
Collaboration and communication
Collaboration and communication with friends, family, and colleagues about cybersecurity can help build a support network and share best practices. Discussing common threats and how to deal with them can raise collective awareness and reduce the risk of falling into cybercriminal traps.
Qondar by Enthec helps you protect your data and digital assets from AI threats
Qondar Personal Threats Watchbots is an innovative platform developed by Enthec to protect people's online personal information and digital assets.
Qondar monitors sensitive data, financial and patrimonial assets, and individual social profiles to detect public leakage of these and prevent their criminal and illegitimate use.
If you want to protect your digital assets or those of your organization's relevant members and avoid the dangers of artificial intelligence to humans, contact us to find out how Qondar can help.
How to protect your user privacy? Essential Guide to Safe Browsing
Protecting user privacy is critical in a digital world where personal information is at constant risk. Users are often unaware of how their private data is being used, which can lead to security breaches, phishing, and exposure to cybercriminals.
Sensitive data can be stolen and disclosed on the deep web if adequate protection is not in place. Many platforms collect user information through various tracking methods, exposing their privacy to potential threats.
If you are concerned about your user privacy, Qondar can become the best solution. Through continuous monitoring, it crawls the Internet, the Deep Web, and the Dark Web to identify exposed personal information, alerting in real time to potential threats and vulnerabilities.
Tracking Techniques Affecting User Privacy
Various techniques are used to collect information about users and their online habits. Knowing them is the first step to protecting yourself:
- Cookies. Small text files that store information in the user's browser and allow tracking of their online activity.
- Privacy Policies. These are documents that explain how a platform manages user data, although they are often extensive and difficult to understand.
- HTML5 elements. Browser storage systems with greater capacity than traditional cookies, allowing companies to save more data.
- IP address and geolocation. They allow the approximate location of an online user to be identified, which can be used for advertising or even malicious purposes.
- Social networks. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram collect information about their users, their interactions, and preferences, sharing it in many cases with third parties.
- Google services. Tools like Google Search and YouTube track user activity to personalize the experience and collect vast personal data.
- Browser fingerprint. Some websites can identify and track users using information about their browser and device, allowing tracking without cookies.
- Supercookies and Evercookies. Advanced storage methods that are more difficult to delete than conventional cookies and can persist on the user's system even after deleting the browsing history.
Tools to protect user privacy
Fortunately, various tools and techniques can improve user privacy and minimize the exposure of personal data on the Internet.
Private search engines
Some search engines respect user privacy and do not track your information or sell it to third parties:
- Ixquick. It does not log IP addresses or store tracking cookies, providing high anonymity.
- Startpage. It delivers Google results without collecting user information, combining privacy with a familiar search experience.
- DuckDuckGo. It does not store or share browsing data with other companies or generate user profiles.
- Qwant. A European search engine that respects users' privacy and does not track their online activity.
Privacy settings in browsers
Each browser offers options to improve user privacy, but they need to be configured appropriately to maximize their effectiveness:
- Firefox. It includes a privacy settings section that allows you to prevent tracking and delete third-party tracking cookies.
- Opera. It allows you to manage cookies, SSL certificates, and passwords and includes a built-in ad blocker.
- Chromium. It provides similar options to Firefox and Opera to protect personal information, but it depends on the user's correct configuration.
- Brave. A privacy-focused browser that blocks ads and trackers by default, offering added security from the start.
- A Virtual Private Network (VPN) hides the user's IP address and allows access to geo-restricted content, protecting privacy on public connections.
Anonymous proxies
A proxy server is an intermediary between the user and the website, hiding the IP address and protecting online privacy. Several lists of reliable proxy servers can help improve digital security, but it is important to choose services that do not store activity logs.
Other solutions to improve user privacy
- HTTPS Everywhere extension. It redirects traffic to secure versions of websites, protecting the transmitted information.
- Browser add-ons. Tools such as Click and Clean allow you to delete information stored in the browser easily.
- Privacy Badger. It blocks intrusive trackers and ads that collect personal data without user consent.
- Adblockers. Extensions such as uBlock Origin and AdGuard reduce online tracking by removing suspicious ads and scripts that may contain malware.
- Secure email. Services such as ProtonMail and Tutanota offer encrypted alternatives to protect users' privacy, prevent tracking, and keep their emails secure.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA). Adds a layer of security to prevent unauthorized access to personal accounts through temporary codes.
- Privacy-focused operating systems. Linux distributions such as Tails and Qubes OS are designed to offer high anonymity and online security.
Best practices for protecting user privacy
In addition to using security tools, it is essential to adopt responsible digital habits to minimize risks:
- Review and adjust privacy settings on social media and digital platforms regularly.
- Avoid sharing unnecessary personal information in online forms and service records.
- Regularly update passwords and use password managers to generate secure and unique keys.
- Be wary of suspicious emails and links to avoid phishing attacks and credential theft.
- Use private or incognito browsing mode when necessary to reduce tracking and prevent the storage of session data.
- Disable data collection on mobile devices by reviewing the permissions of installed apps.
- Encrypt files and devices to protect information from loss or theft.
Discover the primary keys to data encryption through our article→ What is data encryption: characteristics and operation.
Qondar: Advanced protection for user privacy
Qondar Personal Threat Watchbots is a continuous and automated monitoring tool developed by Enthec to protect users' privacy and digital assets.
Thanks to its advanced capabilities, Qondar not only allows for the detection of data breaches but also analyzes risk patterns and provides recommendations to improve digital security. Its artificial intelligence technology helps predict attacks and strengthen personal data protection.
Contact us to find out how Qondar can help you protect your online privacy and prevent your data from being compromised.