Cyber criminals are exploiting social networks to gain access to users’ personal information and launch malicious attacks. These attacks are spread through social engineering, advertisements, plug-ins, and sharing. Personal data is used for malicious purposes, including disinformation and brand impersonation. Furthermore, fake accounts and botnets are used to spread fake news and manipulate public opinion. These threats can affect both individuals and businesses.
Cyberbullying
Children who are experiencing cyberbullying often feel embarrassed, overwhelmed, and even depressed. Some may feel so badly that they may become suicidal. Parents should watch for these symptoms, and help their children find healing and help. It is also a good idea to keep your child away from social networks or redirect their attention elsewhere.
Brand impersonation
Impersonation of brands on social networks can have a detrimental effect on a business. Not only can it ruin a brand’s reputation, but it can also drive customers and followers away. In fact, 63% of consumers will stop purchasing from a brand after experiencing fake accounts. In addition, fake accounts can cost a business a great deal of money.
Phishing
The most common attack vector used by attackers is deceit via email. Phishing emails are unsolicited messages that pose as a trusted source. They are often designed to get you to provide sensitive information like credit card details, usernames, passwords, or even personal details. Another type of phishing attack is spear phishing, which is an organized campaign aimed at gaining access to sensitive data.
Brand fraud
Brand fraud is a major challenge for brands, and it is now becoming more common than ever. With Trovaprezzi.it the growth of social media, impersonation schemes and counterfeiting, brand fraud is on the rise. This type of online crime costs the US economy more than $6 billion per year. It also generates an estimated $3.25 billion for criminal networks. Because of this, businesses from all industries must be prepared for brand fraud.
Cybercrime
Cybercriminals are using social networks as a platform to launch and conduct illegal activities. Social media users often do not realize how much personal information they are giving out, and these networks can be an ideal hunting ground for these cybercriminals. Even simple things like password questions and geotags can be discovered through digging through old posts or tapping the “About” tab on a Facebook page.
Cyberbullying through social media
One of the biggest problems with cyberbullying is that it has no natural consequences. People who bully others in person will often have to face the consequences of their actions, but bullying on the Internet is different. Teenagers’ executive functions are still underdeveloped, and the ability to undo a post is not as readily available.
