Hacking exploits weaknesses and openings within computer/phone systems. This allows hackers to steal information, track you/your contacts, install backdoors and perform other malicious activities. Often, hackers are only interested in making money and will even publish embarrassing/sensitive information about you online to do so.
They may also affect a phone or computer with viruses, which cause it to be slow and prone to error messages. They can even record your conversations! These viruses are called trojans and are often hidden in music files, photos, free games and toolbars, as well as other apps. Another way people can be infected by trojans is when they click on an infected download link or open a file with malware in an email. Hackers can upload trojans onto vulnerable websites to affect as many users as possible. Remote administration tools (RATs) are a brand new technique of hacking. These tools allow the attacker full control over the victim’s PC.
In movies hackers are adept in figuring out passwords. However, in reality, they employ malware to evade this. This could be a trojan that records every password you input or a piece software that allows the hacker to use the microphone on your phone to listen in on your conversations.
The most successful hacking attacks begin with phishing emails/texts that trick you into clicking links or calling numbers. This could result in an intruder having complete access to your phone, computer or personal data and this can be avoided by ensuring that you know who’s sending you a message prior to you decide to call, click or download anything. It is also vital to keep your operating system up-to-date and check/delete attachments prior to you download them.