Hacking exploits weaknesses and gaps in computer and phone systems. Hackers can use this to steal data, spy on you and your contacts, install backdoors, and cause other malicious behaviour. Often, hackers are only interested in making money and will even publish embarrassing/sensitive information about you online to do so.
They can also infect your phone or computer with viruses that make the device slow and vulnerable to errors or even recording conversations you have on it! These viruses are called trojans and can be hidden in music files, photos, free games tools, and other applications. People can also become infected by trojans when they open an infected visite site email attachment or click on an untrusted link. Hackers also have the ability to find unsecure websites and upload trojans to them to infect as many people as they can. A new form of hacking is called remote administration tools (RATs). These programs give the attacker complete and total control over the victim’s computer.
In the films, hackers are masters of figuring out passwords for accounts but in reality, they do this by using malware instead. This could be malware that tracks the passwords that you type or a trojan which allows hackers to listen in on conversations on the microphone on your phone.
The majority of successful hacking attempts start with phishing texts or emails, which trick you into clicking on calls or links. This could lead to the scammer having complete access to your computer or phone or private information, and this can be avoided by always checking who is sending you a message before you make a call, click or download anything. It is also important to regularly upgrade your operating system and also scan or delete all attachments prior downloading them.