Understanding Cybersecurity: The Importance of Being Vigilant Against Online Fraud
Cybersecurity expert Marcus Lundblad from Telenor warns of the continuously evolving tactics employed by online fraudsters. He stresses the importance of recognizing human factors in cybersecurity and maintaining vigilance regarding internet risks.
One prevalent method used by fraudsters involves purchasing domain names resembling those of legitimate companies. A simple typo while typing a URL could redirect you to a fraudulent website, a scenario that frequently occurs among Swedish companies and authorities. Another threat arises when a legitimate website is hijacked by fraudsters through the placement of misleading advertisements. These ads may include links that divert users to malicious environments controlled by criminals.
Emails have also become a common vehicle for cyberattacks, often containing links designed to lure recipients into clicking. A common tactic involves spoofing invoices from trusted suppliers. If the email comes from a different address than the usual source, clicking the link could direct you to a fraudster's page, where you may be prompted to log in. Entering your credentials here can result in the fraudster gaining access to sensitive company information by impersonating you.
Fraudsters can also exploit web browser plugins to download malicious software that monitors network activity on your computer. To counter these threats, Lundblad emphasizes the necessity for companies to conduct regular cybersecurity training for employees. Furthermore, technical solutions like Telenor’s SafeZone provide robust foundational protection.
SafeZone acts as a security service that blocks harmful websites and deters the majority of cyberattacks before they can impact users connected to Telenor’s mobile network. Telenor reports that SafeZone has been instrumental in blocking over 20,000 harmful requests daily, with peak days recording as many as 70,000 blocked threats in just one day. Lundblad elaborates on the functionality of this service:
SafeZone scrutinizes all clicked links on mobile devices, preventing access to dangerous or fraudulent sites. This proactive approach aids users in avoiding inadvertent clicks that could compromise their login information or lead to malicious software installations. Notably, SafeZone does not require any additional software installations; its protective measures are integrated directly into Telenor’s mobile network, activating automatically when users engage with their mobile devices.
As a user, once you are enrolled in the SafeZone service, protection is seamless—active as long as you are browsing through the Telenor network. This capability extends your security whether you're at home or navigating potential danger zones such as public Wi-Fi networks in cafes or airports, making it easier to stay safe on the go.
Furthermore, SafeZone is continuously updated in real time to shield users against new threats and dangerous sites. This service is part of a broader security strategy, reinforcing the notion that while no singular solution can offer comprehensive protection, SafeZone represents an accessible and effective means to guard against harmful links and websites.
Nalitha Parasnis, business manager for SafeZone, highlights that this service is designed to cater to all users, requiring no advanced technical expertise to implement effectively. Often, people focus only on securing their computers while neglecting the protection of their mobile devices. With SafeZone, safeguarding your mobile phone becomes an uncomplicated affair.
Developed by Telenor’s cybersecurity experts, Lundblad underlines that SafeZone benefits from extensive specialist knowledge and insights into advanced cyber threats. Recognizing potential vulnerabilities and educating users about maintaining online safety is pivotal in combating rising cybersecurity challenges.
Related Sources: