Cyber-attack threat grows ever larger

Expert says hackers use software such as spyware or Trojans to hack operating systems

LAHORE: Are users’ phones and laptops safe from hackers or their data protected from security breaches? The answer is a resounding “no”, if cyber security experts are to be believed. The main reason is that most mobile phone and laptop users are unaware of the manner in which data security works.

According to a survey of the National Response Unit, 80% of all laptop users install cheap and free pirated operating systems (OS). However, they are largely ignorant of the fact that a pirated OS enables their devices to become accessible to the very people who provided the software.

The hacker is able to easily access the mobile OS. Data such as private messages and contacts of the mobile user become compromised, while the device cameras and microphone become accessible. In other words, the hacker gains control of every basic feature of the user’s personal device.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Cyber Security Expert Suleman Younus said that mobile users unnecessarily click on forwarded links to get prizes or free burger deals.

In most cases, this is a trap that has been laid out by the hackers. “As soon as the user clicks on the link, mobile phones or any other devices become accessible to hackers. In this way, hackers not only steal mobile data, but also blackmail users after gaining access to personal information.”

The expert added that hackers use software spyware or Trojans to hack into operating systems. “We cannot prevent all cyber-attacks, but we can prevent at least 70% on mobile phones. If a user is using any internet connected devices, it is recommended that she or he download only certified applications that are safe from free ‘traps’.”

He advised users not to click on unidentified links under any circumstances. “Always download paid operating systems.”

An ethical hacking group, working under the name ‘Plan Nine’ in IT Tower, has introduced an app named Cyber Tor to secure electronic devices. By installing this app, users can protect their camera and microphone features in electronic devices.

In addition to this, users can save time by avoiding visits to unneeded websites and replies to unidentified senders of e-mail. In view of this, the expert advised laptop users to be cautious. He observed that hacker attacks on laptops with resume ware can lock all the drives in the laptop. “After the attack, money is demanded in dollars by hackers through a message that states the details of a foreign account. The message also allows payment through electronic currency of which there is no trace.”

The expert further stated that laptop and mobile users should keep a backup of their data and install an anti-virus app. He said that a cell, called NR3C National Response Center, has been established for lodging complaints against hackers on a government level.

“Hackers can be fined from Rs0.2 million to Rs1 million for cybercrime and they can be imprisoned for three months to 14 years – if the offence is proved.” 

Published in The Express Tribune, July 5^th, 2019.