Cyber warfare involves the actions by a nation-state or international organization to attack and attempt to damage another nation’s computers or information networks through, for example, computer viruses or denial-of-service attacks. Targets include such things as power grids and mobile networks.
The current threat from Russia is very real, over time they have invested huge amounts in their cyber army and the skill levels are generally considered to be high. Should you be worried? as far as your own cyber security is concerned ie: banking information, social networks accounts and such like, you are unlikely to be a direct target of a government sponsored attack, however, the likelihood of amateur hackers having a go in the name of the cause is more likely now which can put the un-prepared at risk. Expect to see more than the usual number of virus’s, phishing sites, scams and identity thefts attempts.
What should I do?
For the the average user just be more vigilant including the following:
- Follow the advice given in our last article about passwords
- Windows users MUST update every time updates are available
- Computers using windows 7, XP and older should never connect to the Internet
- Contrary to popular belief, linux users are less vulnerable but not immune.
- Update your anti virus software regularly, win 10 and 11 does this with updates.
- Never open email attachments unless you know what it is, especially zip files.
- Never enter personal and financial information into non secure sites
- Use trusted antimalware software like Malwarebytes ,there is a free version
- Dare is say, avoid those dodgy adult orientated sites
As far as your non cyber life is concerned, there is no need to panic but it would be prudent to consider some things like, what you would do if the power was cut for any length of time, do you have alternative means to keep warm, provide light, cook food etc? If the Mobile phone network was shutdown, would this leave you in a critical situation, do you have an alternative method of contacting someone who needs to be contactable?
We are not talking pending doom here, most attacks will be successfully stopped before any real damage is done. I also doubt very much that Spain is going to be a major target, most efforts are most likely to be spent on the US and its major allies.
To conclude, no need to panic, just be extra vigilant and stay safe as always.