Does the name Kevin Mitnick sound familiar to you? This 59-year-old California-born male compromised national security by breaking into the North American Defense Command system in 1982. He also caused losses amounting to $300 million after hacking into several private companies’ networks.
4 Telltale Signs That Your Online Account, Computer, Or Phone Has Been Hacked
To stay safe from thousands of Kevin Mitnick wannabes, one must learn the telltale signs of a hacked account, computer, or phone. Here are tips on protecting your setup from hackers.
#1. Your Fully Operational Computer Starts to Malfunction
Imagine typing a 2,000-word thesis only for your computer’s screen to turn blue or restart when you are about to save it! An error in the operating system (OS), hardware, and hacking are some of the reasons a computer could crash. Below are some of the imminent signs that your computer crash is due to OS and hardware errors:
- Louder than ordinary system fan
- Constant restart prompts from unmandated OS update
- A noisy hard drive dominated by clicking and grinding sounds
- Slow performance
How about in the case of hacking? Here are some classical signs:
- Your PC doesn’t restart or shut down on your command
- It’s impossible to uninstall programs that you did not install
- Your PC’s webcam, microphone, and GPS are operating without your approval
- There are suspicious websites in your browsing history
- Your PC’s battery drains faster than usual
#2. Your Online Account Credentials Are No Longer Working
No one ever thinks of changing their email password every few months. If you did not change your password and cannot log in to your account, chances are high that someone has hacked it. For your own good and safety, you must report the issue to the relevant party.
#3. Your Account(s) Has Irregular Activities
Would a new employee email their boss to demand a raise in pay? Would a doctor ask a patient for their medical insurance account password? No, they wouldn’t. So, if you login into your account and find that you have sent such weird emails, you are right to suspect that your account’s security has been breached.
#4. Your Antivirus Software Is Disabled
An antivirus is a software program designed to protect, prevent, detect and remove any malware threats in your computer. Such malware includes browser hijackers, Trojan horses, and worms.
When your PC’s antivirus isn’t working, your computer becomes more vulnerable to a cybersecurity breach. Unauthorized disabling of antivirus software indicates that your computer has or is about to face an attack.
3 Proactive Tips to Prevent Your Account and Devices From Hackers
Below are some top tips for deterring hackers from attacking your account, PC, and phone.
#1. Browse Anonymously by Using a Safe and Reliable Proxy
If a malicious party gets hold of your IP, they can launch a DDoS attack against you. They may also gain access to your outer perimeter and search for vulnerabilities in your setup. Fortunately, a reliable proxy server can help you enhance your cybersecurity by masking your IP address. This extra layer makes it impossible for hackers to track your browsing activities, which they can use to access your device and accounts.
With proxies, you can easily navigate restricted websites with minimal risk of your computer or online account getting hacked. For an easy and safe search for the best proxies, have a look at this list by bestproxyfinder.com. This IPRoyal proxy coupon gives you a 10% discount at one of the top providers in the market.
#2. Constantly Change Your Passwords
It’s crucial to change your passwords periodically to keep hackers at bay. Make sure that you use unique passwords. Avoid using obvious passwords such as your birth date, spouse, children or pet’s name, and phone number.
#3. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) For All Your Accounts
The surest way to keep hackers from your accounts is by enabling 2FA on all your supported accounts. This security measure allows account access after keying in a password and an additional code.
Think Big! Tech Up and Protect Your Devices and Online Accounts Today
A malfunctioning PC, irregular account activities, and being locked out of your accounts are some sure signs that your account or device has been hacked. Always change your passwords regularly, implement 2FA for your accounts, and use a reliable proxy. These are practical ways to defend yourself from hackers.
