How to protect yourself during new hacker attacks

How to protect yourself during new hacker attacks

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If last winter the energy infrastructure of Ukraine was primarily targeted by attacks, now the mobile communication system has also been added to it. Therefore, you should be prepared for various scenarios, including the shutdown of several mobile operators.

Remember digital security

It is worth reviewing the security settings in messengers and traffic protection.

  • Review your password management. Are they unique, reliable and long-lasting everywhere? Do you use a password manager to save them? For example, you can use BitWarden or KeePass.
  • Install two-factor authentication on all apps and social media pages. Then, if an attacker learns your password, he will need to get additional confirmation to enter the account. This authentication can be a phone notification, a code generator app, a physical key, and backup codes. There should be several ways. If you have SMS login confirmation configured, change it to one of the suggested ones. For example, set up Google Authenticator.
  • Pay attention to messages that offer a win, and to receive it, they require a lot of data: account login and password, CVV-2 card code, follow a link or register on an unfamiliar site. This type of fraud is called phishing. Do not download files from strangers or interact with suspicious links.
  • Choose and install a VPN you trust. This service will help encrypt your traffic and protect it from intruders, especially if you work with public Wi-Fi. There is a free Canadian VPN called Psiphon.
  • Configure your home router and protect your Wi-Fi network. After all, they can be threatened by various types of attacks. For example, hackers will use your device for DDoS attacks, fraudsters will gain access to data on your computer, encrypt it or delete it.

What should be done: put a strong password in the login to the admin panel, change the default username (so that the login and password are not “admin admin”). To go to the router settings, in the address bar of the browser, enter the address or

You can also find this information on the router box, instructions for it, or a sticker on the device. Put a strong password on the WiFi network itself. It must be non-typical (no qwerty), without your personal data, contain at least 12 characters and contain numbers and special characters.

  • Keep cash with you. Terminals and ATMs may not work during communication problems. So, to avoid running out of money, carry enough cash to last you a few days.
  • Consult specialists for advice. For example, to the Nadiyno.org digital security support line. Operators will advise and help solve the problem. Calls are anonymous and free, and the line is open every day, even on weekends.

How to protect yourself from complete isolation in case of “falling” of your mobile operator

  • Keep SIM cards of several operators. It can be both a physical card and an electronic one.
  • Connect Ukrtelecom telephony. The “city” phone will allow you to call mobile phones as well. Call 0 (800) 506 800 to find out if this is available in your area and what rates the company offers.
  • Listen to the radio. If other air alert systems fail, they will be heard over the air.
  • If your mobile operator is Lifecell and you are in a place with stable Wi-Fi from another provider, enable the Wi-Fi Calling feature. So you can make phone calls over the Internet.
  • Find out where the nearest Unbreakable Points are to you. For example, on the government website. Most likely, they will organize a reliable method of communication there.

Alina Elevterovaexpert in digital security of the NGO “Internews-Ukraine”

Publications in the “View” section are not editorial articles and reflect exclusively the author’s point of view.

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