Cyber threats families need to watch out for

In a perfect world, children would be able to experience the internet at their own pace, free from the fear of threats and cyber criminals. Unfortunately, there is no perfect internet. Cyber criminals will try to trick younger audiences so they can access and steal personal data, potentially leading to identity or financial theft.

These threats are out there and it’s important you know what they are and how to prevent them so that you can teach the children in your life and keep them cyber safe.

Here are some of the most common cyber threats to your children and family:

Social engineering

When cyber criminals do research online to learn personal information about someone and then use that information in a scam attempt, it’s called social engineering. Social engineers use pet names, school details or any personal information that they can find online to trick you into thinking they are someone you know or trust.

Make sure kids stay safe from social engineering Social engineeringThe practice of obtaining confidential information by manipulation of legitimate users. A social engineer will commonly use the telephone or internet to trick people into revealing sensitive information. For example, phishing is a type of social engineering. by telling them not to overshare online, especially when it comes to personal information about their family. Have kids check with trusted adults whenever they think they encounter something suspicious online, or when someone they don’t know tries to contact them. Trusted adults should be aware of and monitor all the accounts that kids are on. This includes gaming, streaming and social media Social mediaInternet-based tools that allow people to listen, interact, engage, and collaborate with each other. Popular social media platforms include Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Twitter. platforms.  

Phishing

Phishing PhishingAn attempt by a third party to solicit confidential information from an individual, group, or organization by mimicking or spoofing, a specific, usually well-known brand, usually for financial gain.  is one of the most common threats for Canadians when it comes to cyber security —regardless of age. It’s important for you talk to kids about phishing so they can recognize the signs and know how to protect themselves. Sometimes, phishing scams can be very specific and use information gathered from social engineering tactics.

If kids know the signs of phishing, they’ll be better prepared to recognize cyber threats. Take a moment with the kids in your life to go over what they should look out for. Make sure they know to get help from a trusted adult if something looks suspicious.

Network security

With so many devices having Wi-Fi Wi-FiWi-Fi refers to a set of wireless communication protocols that can transmit traffic to Wi-Fi enabled devices within a local area. A Wi-Fi enabled device such as a laptop or tablet can connect to the internet when within range of a wireless network connected to the internet. An area covered by one or more Wi-Fi access points is commonly called a hotspot. capability, it’s extra important for families to secure their home network. Take precautions, like changing default DefaultA setting automatically chosen by a program or computer that remains until the user specifies another setting. passwords and turning off devices when they are not in use. If the network NetworkSeveral computers that are connected to one another. is vulnerable, personal information can be exposed to cyber criminals.

Device security  

It’s important that all the devices a family uses are secure. This even includes things like toys, gaming systems, appliances and exercise equipment. Make sure security features, like passwords, are enabled on any device that lets you. You should also be installing the latest software updates so your devices have the most recent security features. Find out how to secure a new or older device in this infographic.  

Malware

One of the biggest threats to anyone’s cyber security is malware. Malware MalwareMalicious software ("malware") designed to infiltrate or damage a computer system, without the owner's consent. Common forms of malware include computer viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and adware. It can: • Intimidate you with scareware, which is usually a pop-up message that tells you your computer has a security problem or other false information. • Reformat the hard drive of your computer causing you to lose all your information. • Alter or delete files. • Steal sensitive information. • Send emails on your behalf. • Take control of your computer and all the software running on it. is downloaded through links or attachments found in a variety of places online. A simple link LinkSee Hyperlink. saying “free puppies” could install a virus VirusA computer program that can spread by making copies of itself. Computer viruses spread from one computer to another, usually without the knowledge of the user.  Viruses can have harmful effects, ranging from displaying irritating messages to stealing data or giving other users control over the infected computer. to your device or network. When talking to kids about malware and downloads, focus on teaching them not to click on anything that looks suspicious. Many of the practices to avoid scams like phishing also help protect from malware.

Gaming

Gaming is one of the most popular online activities with kids, and cyber criminals use video games to target kids. The best way to keep the kids in your life cyber safe while gaming is by knowing what games they are playing. This allows you to better understand they type of threats that might target them, like phishing scams through private messages. Many games use a point or reward systems that cyber criminals can exploit ExploitA defined way to breach the security of an IT system through a vulnerability. and use to their advantage. Remind your kids that they should always go to a trusted adult with anything they find suspicious.

Conclusion

There are many cyber threats online, and it can be hard for families to protect themselves against them, especially the scams targeting children. Be aware of the threats your family could be exposed to and talk to the kids in your life about how they can stay safe online. You should also ensure they come to you with anything that they find suspicious or confusing online. If families follow these tips, they can all get cyber safe.