The dangers of the virtual world have never been as present as they are now, and 2024 promises to be a challenging year for cybersecurity.

As technology advances, criminals also improve their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities and deceive the unwary.

In this article, we will discuss the top threats that are expected to grow in 2024 and how you can protect your personal and financial information.

1. Increased use of AI in new scams and frauds

One of the most worrying trends for 2024 is the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) in online scams and fraud. AI has made it possible to create more elaborate and convincing scams, making it harder for even risk-aware people to spot fraud.

Scammers are now using AI to create convincing phishing messages that pose as legitimate communications from well-known companies. Phony emails and text messages are used to request personal or financial information, leaving victims vulnerable.

Additionally, criminals also use AI to create fake copies of legitimate websites. These fake pages look very similar to the real ones and can trick users into downloading malware, exposing their personal and banking details.

To protect yourself from these attacks, it is crucial to exercise caution when dealing with emails and messages from unknown sources. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or opening suspicious attachments. Verify the legitimacy of the websites you visit and keep your systems and software up to date.

2. New Pix scams

With the growing popularity of the instant payment system Pix, scammers are exploiting this facility to commit financial fraud. New banking malware designed to take advantage of the opportunities offered by Pix is expected to emerge.

One example is the “Ghost Hand Scam,” where criminals are able to access devices and control them without users noticing. They use the ATS (Automated Transfer System) technique to redirect Pix transfers to fraudulent accounts.

To protect yourself from these threats, it is essential to use a good antivirus on your mobile device and never download applications from outside the official stores. Avoid downloading any suspicious files, as this is one of the ways criminals can implant malware on your device.

3. Attacks on open source programs

Open source programs are popular for their open collaboration and transparency, but they can also be targeted by criminals. They exploit vulnerabilities known as “backdoors” to access sensitive company and user data.

The rise of these backdoors in open-source programs is a worrying trend for 2024. To protect yourself, it’s a good idea to regularly scan your systems and online accounts for vulnerabilities. Use reliable software, and keep your devices and logins updated with the latest security patches.

4. Data hijacking in companies

Ransomware attacks, in which criminals steal data and demand ransoms, are expected to become more selective in 2024, targeting businesses and financial institutions for higher payouts. Criminals are organizing themselves more flexibly, making tracking and combating these attacks more complex.

To protect yourself, it’s essential to regularly back up your data and keep your mobile devices up to date. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or opening suspicious attachments, even if they come from known contacts. These measures will help ensure your online safety in the face of increasingly sophisticated cybercriminal tactics.

5. Scams against misconfigured devices and services

Misconfigured devices and services are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Incorrect configurations can create security gaps, allowing criminals to access your personal and financial data.

To protect yourself, adjust the settings on your mobile devices to protect them from intrusion. Use tools like firewalls and intrusion detection systems to check for and fix vulnerabilities in your systems.

Enabling two-factor authentication is another important step to add an extra layer of security to your devices and online accounts. Keep your mobile apps and systems up to date with security patches released by manufacturers.

Conclusion

In short, 2024 brings with it increasing cybersecurity challenges, but being aware of the threats and taking preventative measures can help protect your personal and financial information. Stay vigilant and stay up-to-date to face the online scams that lie ahead.