Digital security: learn about hidden threats that can infect your computer

The technology that powers our smart devices, such as computers and smartphones , and the entire internet network that powers our lives, is constantly evolving.

In the beginning, a website was just a sequence of text with attached images, today it is possible to work with documents, videos, games and do all kinds of complex activities within the browser.

Computer programs, which were once simple and unfunctional, have become true platforms with diverse resources and interactions.

Why talk about digital security?

While this constant technological advancement brings us a series of advantages, it also brings the dark side of the story.

Malicious actors who want to break into computers, steal data, and so on, are also developing at the same speed.

The techniques for attacking a computer are becoming increasingly cunning, dangerous and hidden. Therefore, to defend yourself from this type of threat, you need to have more and more knowledge.

For this reason, we have selected some of the most widely used alternatives to hack computers today so that you can keep an eye on them.

Malicious browser extensions

Extensions for browsers like Chrome and Firefox have allowed various programs to add additional features to our web experience.

In fact, some are extremely useful and can even improve our digital security, such as a VPN for Chrome , which prevents the interception of your personal data, or an ad blocker for Firefox that can prevent malicious ads.

However, hackers soon realized the power available in these types of extensions. Extensions can access computer data, access history, mouse clicks, password typing on the keyboard, and much more.

In the Google Chrome extension store, the numbers are frightening, 9 out of 10 extensions have been accused of containing malicious code, a fact that has become Chrome’s true weak point .

Therefore, it is recommended to only install extensions from safe sources, from trusted companies or developers who leave their code open for consultation on the internet.

Windows Themes

But if you thought viruses embedded in browser extensions were ingenious, you’ll be surprised by the latest mechanism malware developers have found to infect Windows computers: custom themes.

Themes are not new to the system, having existed and evolved since older versions such as Windows XP and remaining relevant even in Windows 10.

Available even in the Microsoft Store, the packages allow the user to receive icons, sounds, wallpapers and other visual resources to revamp the appearance of their PC, which can be cool, but also dangerous.

After all, hackers realized that Windows theme files can send user credentials to an external server during authentication. Hence the reason why this type of attack exists.

Through a verification attack, they can redirect information and obtain the email and password for the Microsoft account, Windows corporate account and even Google account if there are synchronization services.

Therefore, it is not safe to install themes until Microsoft releases an update that fixes this serious vulnerability.

Microsoft Office Documents

Documents from the Microsoft Office suite of programs are almost universally used in offices, schools and businesses to manage spreadsheets, text documents and slide presentations.

Given the popularity of the programs, this type of document became a target for hackers looking for security flaws that could steal user data.

There are several ways to hide a virus inside a seemingly innocent Word, Excel or PowerPoint file. Among them, an old vulnerability that has been used in 2020 to obtain user data, and is especially dangerous for those who still use Office 2007, Office 2010, Office 2013 or Office 2016, making it essential to update to the Office 365 version of the program, the most current one.

In current versions of programs, when opening a file for the first time, Microsoft Office chooses to display the content, but not allow editing or execution of automations, this allows the user to check the document before exposing themselves to potential vulnerabilities.

Never open Office documents from unknown senders, suspicious emails, or third-party sources without ensuring their safety.

Be aware to ensure digital security

Security vulnerabilities are everywhere, even in features and programs we never expected.

It is essential to always stay informed about system and application updates, digital security news and use network protection and antivirus tools to prevent the theft of personal data. Otherwise, you may have problems.

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