Emerging Threats

111 articles

Don’t get blindsided while streaming sports online

Learn the dangers that come with streaming sports online and how you can avoid fumbling your info and getting sacked by cybercriminals.

October 30, 2023·3 min
From deepfakes to bitcoin: The new wave of TikTok scams and how to dodge them

Norton researchers report on the latest TikTok scams targeting younger generations. Check out the latest tactics scammers are using, including deepfakes and bitcoin lures.

September 18, 2023·8 min read
We’re celebrating a special crime-fighting icon with some hero-level digital tools

What tools would our favorite flying echo-locating mammalian hero keep at hand to fight crime in the online world?

September 15, 2023·2 min read
Deep web vs. dark web: What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between the deep web vs. the dark web? Turn to this overview to learn how they both work and for tips for those surfing the deep web and dark web.

September 01, 2023·4 min read
Do tablets and smartphones need security software?

Tablets and smartphones can be vulnerable to online threats and need security software

September 01, 2023·2 min read
Zero-day vulnerability: What it is, and how it works

A zero-day vulnerability is a software security flaw that is known to the software vendor but doesn’t have a patch in place to fix the flaw. If left unaddressed, vulnerabilities create security holes that cybercriminals can exploit. To keep your computer and data safe, it’s smart to take proactive and reactive security measures.

September 01, 2023·4 min read
Working from home on your own computer: 12 security tips in the COVID-19 era

Many companies were unprepared to have employees work from home due to the coronavirus outbreak. These security steps can help.

September 01, 2023·4 min read
What is a firewall? Firewalls explained and why you need one

Firewalls can help keep your network, computer, and data safe and secure. Here’s how.

September 01, 2023·3 min read
What exactly is a pig butchering scam?

Among cybercriminals, a new relationship scam is emerging. Don’t be fooled: there’s no farm-to-table dinner ahead, only empty bank accounts.

August 18, 2023·4 min read
If your email does this, that’s a red flag

If you spot one of these in your email, it could be a scam. Keep an eye out for these red flags in your inbox. 

August 14, 2023·3 min read
What is a smurf attack? How it works + prevention tips

What is a smurf attack?

A smurf attack is a distributed denial-of-service attack (DDoS) that enables hackers to render a computer network inoperable.

July 17, 2023·4 min read
What is a zero-day exploit? Definition and prevention tips

Zero-day exploit definition

A zero-day exploit is when hackers discover a software gap or flaw they can use to gain access to users’ information or computers.

July 14, 2023·3 min
Phictionary – the phishing dictionary every digital citizen should read

Phictionary is a dictionary to help spot the tell-tale signs of phishing attacks. Keep this checklist close by downloading the entire guide below. 

July 11, 2023·3 min
What is a pass the hash attack? + How to mitigate an attack

What is a pass the hash attack?

 

A pass the hash attack is when a hacker steals stored user credentials and uses them to impersonate legitimate users and gain unauthorized access to a network.

June 22, 2023·3 min
What is a script kiddie? Definition + examples

Script kiddie definition

 

"Script kiddie" is a demeaning term used to describe novice hackers who use existing scripts and software to carry out cyberattacks.

June 22, 2023·3 min
15 infamous hacker groups to look for [1981 to 2024]

Hacking groups can be a major threat to your business and are widely active on the web today. Learn about the top 15 hacker groups to watch for in this guide.

June 21, 2023·5 min
What is bluejacking? Definition + protection tips

What is bluejacking?

 

Bluejacking is a Bluetooth attack in which a hacker spams your device with unsolicited phishing messages.

June 19, 2023·3 min
What is a hacker (as explained in movie characters)? + how to protect yourself

What is a hacker?

 

A hacker is an individual who uses their computer skills to find vulnerabilities in existing technology to achieve a goal or overcome an obstacle. In some cases, hackers may use their expertise maliciously and gain unauthorized access to private data.                                                                                                                                            

June 14, 2023·3 min
What is cryptojacking? An overview + prevention tips

Cryptojacking Definition

 

Cryptojacking is a form of malicious cryptomining that allows cybercriminals to mine cryptocurrency using another entity’s computing power.  

June 14, 2023·3 min
What is a tailgating attack + how to protect yourself

What is a tailgating attack?

 

A tailgating attack is a social engineering tactic where an attacker follows someone with authorized access into a restricted area to steal private information, install malware, or damage property.

June 13, 2023·3 min
What is an evil twin attack? How to spot and avoid them

What is an evil twin attack?

 

An evil twin attack is when a hacker creates a Wi-Fi hotspot that impersonates a legitimate Wi-Fi network and then uses it to spy on your internet activity and steal your information, such as login credentials.

June 13, 2023·5 min read
March 17, 2023·3 min read
What is riskware + how to spot and avoid it in 2024

Riskware refers to legitimate software that can potentially threaten your cybersecurity. Read our guide to learn how to spot and avoid riskware in 2024.

March 14, 2023·5 min read
Special Issue Norton Cyber Safety Pulse Report – The Cyber Risks of ChatGPT

In this special issue of the Norton Pulse Report, Norton Labs explores how cyber criminals could leverage Chat GPT to enhance their scams. 

March 02, 2023·5 min read
Cybercrime outlook 2023: It’s all about the economy

Norton Labs released their 2023 cybersecurity predictions. See how the economy is expected to have an impact on cybercrime next year.

January 01, 2023·4 min read
Online scams: An overview + 20 internet scams to avoid in 2024

How do online scams work? Use this guide on different types of online scams to help protect your devices and data from internet scamming and other cyberthreats.

September 16, 2022·4 min read
What’s a Twitter bot and how to spot one

Twitter bots are automated Twitter accounts controlled by bot software. Learn what they do.

September 04, 2022·2 min read
115 cybersecurity statistics + trends to know in 2024

Explore these 115 cybersecurity statistics to understand the latest cybercrime rates and cybersecurity trends currently shaping the hacking industry.

September 01, 2022·3 min read
How to remove a fake virus alert: A step-by-step guide

A fake virus alert is a deceptive hacking tool. Learn how to remove fake virus pop-ups, spot warning signs, as well as tips to help keep your devices safe.

August 30, 2022·3 min read
Ransomware statistics: 102 facts and trends you need to know in 2024

Use this overview of 102 ransomware statistics to learn about the latest ransomware attacks and how to better protect your personal devices and information.

August 07, 2022·4 min read
Dictionary attack: A definition + 10 dictionary attack protection tips

Use this smishing guide to learn about how smishing attacks work, including real-life smishing examples, and smishing scam protection tips to elevate your mobile device security.

May 06, 2022·2 min read
What is smishing + smishing attack protection tips for 2022

Use this smishing guide to learn about how smishing attacks work, including real-life smishing examples, and smishing scam protection tips to elevate your mobile device security.

May 03, 2022·2 min read
DDoS attacks: A simplified guide + DDoS attack protection tips

What’s the difference between the deep web vs. the dark web? Turn to this overview to learn how they both work and for tips for those surfing the deep web and dark web.

April 28, 2022·3 min read
Password spraying 101: An overview + password spraying protection tips

Password spraying is when cybercriminals guess the passwords of their potential victims, often on a large scale. Learn how to protect your credentials.

April 27, 2022·4 min read
What is malware + how to prevent malware attacks

Consider this your ultimate guide to malware, including a malware definition and ways to help protect yourself against malware.

April 06, 2022·4 min read
Password attack 101: A definition + 10 types of password attacks to avoid

This password attack protection guide overviews common types of password attacks, as well as password attack prevention tips to help improve your privacy and cybersecurity.

March 28, 2022·2 min read
What are Denial of Service (DoS) attacks? DoS attacks explained

A Denial of Service (DoS) attack can be easily engineered from nearly any location. Learn more about what it is and how it works.

March 15, 2022·4 min read
What is the difference between black, white and gray hat hackers?

Hackers can be categorized by the type of metaphorical “hat” they wear. What is the difference between black hat, white hat, and gray hat hackers? Learn more.

February 25, 2022·3 min read
What is the difference between black, white and gray hat hackers?

Hackers can be categorized by the type of metaphorical “hat” they wear. What is the difference between black hat, white hat, and gray hat hackers? Learn more.

February 24, 2022·4 min read
Shareware: An overview + the cost of ‘free’ software

Shareware is a type of software that is freely distributed to users. The intent of the software developer is to convert free users to paying customers in the future.

February 07, 2022·4 min read
What is an advanced persistent threat (APT)?

Consider this your go-to guide for advanced persistent threat protection, including how APT attacks work and APT attacks to watch for.

January 23, 2022·2 min read
Whaling attack: What it is + whaling protection tips

Also known as “executive phishing,” whaling attacks are something high-level executives and digital citizens alike should be aware of. Consider this your go-to guide about what is whaling, plus whaling protection tips.

January 06, 2022·2 min read
Cyberattacks on the rise: What to do before and after a cyberattack or data breach

You can’t prevent a cyberattack or a data breach, but there are steps you can take to help prepare for and react to one.

December 17, 2021·3 min read
Brute force attack: A definition + 6 types to know

What are data loss prevention tools you can use to protect your network? Read further to educate yourself on some DLP best practices and level up your cybersecurity as a whole.

December 05, 2021·4 min read
Reopening, work, and COVID-19: 6 tips to help stay secure

As U.S. businesses start to reopen, employees and employer can team up to help keep company data safe

December 01, 2021·2 min read
Data loss prevention: What is DLP + how does it work?

What are data loss prevention tools you can use to protect your network? Read further to educate yourself on some DLP best practices and level up your cybersecurity as a whole.

November 10, 2021·2 min read
Holiday cybercrime statistics + tips to protect against threats

Holiday cybercrime statistics are hard to break out, but it’s fair to say some cybercrimes are known to appear around holidays. Here’s what you need to know.

October 18, 2021·4 min read
What to do after 5 types of data breaches

Learn what to do after 5 types of data breaches. Find out how to help protect yourself against possible identity theft.

October 08, 2021·2 min read
Credential stuffing simplified + attack protection tips | Norton

A guide covering just what is credential stuffing, how credential stuffing attacks occur, and methods for protecting your computer’s operating systems.

October 07, 2021·3 min read
GPS spoofing: What it is + spoofing attacks to watch for

An overview of GPS spoofing, meaning when technology or a person alters data so that a device appears in a different location or time zone, and how to avoid it.

September 21, 2021·3 min read
What is a zero-day exploit?

An overview of what is a smurf attack, the parts that play into smurfing, how it results in DDoS attacks, plus pointers for smurf attack prevention

September 03, 2021·3 min read
What is a watering hole attack + how to prevent one

Consider this your ultimate guide to watering hole attacks, including what is a watering hole attack, real-life examples, and watering hole prevention tips.

August 20, 2021·2 min read
T-Mobile investigating data breach. Data of more than 40 million existing and prospective customers exposed

T-Mobile has confirmed unauthorized access to its data and is investigating the extent of the incident, after reports that sensitive data of 100 million T-Mobile USA customers is for sale on the web.

August 19, 2021·3 min read
115 cybersecurity statistics and trends you need to know in 2021

Cybercrimes cost the world $6 trillion a year by 2021, according to cybersecurity ventures. Large data breaches and cyberthreats from foreign locales such as China and Russia threaten elections. Experts worry that 5G technology will create additional cybersecurity challenges for businesses.

August 09, 2021·2 min read
What is the dark web? The dark web defined and explained

The dark web is often used by cybercriminals. But it’s also visited by journalists, law enforcement agencies and others.

June 18, 2021·2 min read
15 work-from-home security tips: Security best practices for remote workers

If you decide to work remote, it’s important to keep cyber safety in mind. That means protecting your devices and data, just like you would in the workplace.

May 12, 2021·3 min read
How you can fight disinformation on social media

Here’s a look at the challenges facing social media platforms and how you can steer clear of disinformation this season.

March 10, 2021·3 min read
5 election scams to avoid

Here’s a sample of common election scams and advice for outwitting the scammers behind them.

October 05, 2020·4 min read
How to spot deepfake videos — 15 signs to watch for

Deepfake videos could have serious implications during the 2020 election season. Learn why.

August 12, 2020·3 min read
What is a distributed denial of service attack (DDoS) and what can you do about them?

A distributed denial-of-service attack is one of the most powerful weapons on the internet. A DDoS attack is a cyberattack on a server, service, website, or network that floods it with Internet traffic. The aim is to overwhelm the website or service with more traffic than the server or network can accommodate.

July 23, 2020·4 min read
Phone hijacking: When criminals take over your phone and everything in it

Hackers have figured out a way to hijack cell phones and steal the valuable information contained in them. Find out how criminals go after emails, photographs and payment apps to commit larger crimes like blackmail, fraud and theft. Learn how to keep your identity safe.

September 04, 2019·3 min read
Biometric data breach: Database exposes fingerprints, facial recognition data of 1 million people

Biometric data breach: Could cybercriminals use your biometric data to commit identity theft or other crimes?

August 18, 2019·2 min read
10 cyber security facts and statistics for 2018

Data breaches, ransomware attacks, cryptojacking, threats to your connected devices all contribute to new rounds of cyber security facts, figures, and statistics. Do you find it hard to keep up? Let’s cherry-pick 10 cyber safety facts to help give you the big picture.

August 08, 2018·3 min read
Personal information of 143 million people may have been exposed in Equifax data breach

Equifax has announced that cybercriminals have exploited a vulnerability in their website, allowing them to gain access to certain files. The data breach appears to have taken place from mid-May through July 2017.

August 08, 2018·3 min read
2020 Election Cybersecurity: Protecting U.S. elections against cybercrime

The 2020 U.S. elections face major cybersecurity threats. Learn what they are and what the U.S. is doing to protect elections from hacking.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
Election Day 2018: 7 security tips you should know before you vote

Your vote counts. Before casting your ballot, take a look at these 7 tips for election security.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
Bug in Apple’s iOS and OSX AirDrop could allow malware to be installed silently

A vulnerability in Apple’s AirDrop feature has been discovered by Australian security researcher Mark Dowd. AirDrop is an “over-the-air” file sharing service that uses Bluetooth and WiFi, and is built into iOS and Mac OS X products.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
How to protect your online privacy with a VPN

Did you know that your ISP can see what you do while you’re online? From making purchases to looking up medical conditions, your actions create a digital trail of data that can paint a very detailed picture of you.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
Ransomware – what can you do about it

Malicious software that uses encryption to hold data for ransom has become wildly successful over the last few years. The purpose of this software is to extort money from the victims with promises of restoring encrypted data.

August 08, 2018·3 min read
Home security camera and doorbells: tips to help secure your devices

Hackers can set their sights on Ring and other home security cameras, and that has made some customers feel less than secure.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
PC or Mac: Which is more resistant to cyber threats?

Cyber criminals are not run-of-the-mill street hooligans. Assailants of online crimes are educated, tech-savvy, sophisticated individuals who dont care if you prefer PC to Mac or vice versa. There...

August 08, 2018·3 min read
Targeted attacks now moving into the IoT and router space

Recently, there have been reports about state sponsored, targeted attacks moving into the router and IoT security space. Read more to see how this affects you.

August 08, 2018·3 min read
Watch out for "free" movie and television scams during big events

Since streaming video content has become mostly commonplace, cybercriminals have taken notice, and are spreading spyware and malware on many social media platforms via comments

August 08, 2018·2 min read
Windows 10 compatibility with Norton products

As a Norton customer, you are always entitled to download the latest version of your Norton product for free during your service period. Existing customers are...

August 08, 2018·3 min read
High-profile people and companies among Twitter accounts hacked in Bitcoin scam: Here’s what to watch out for

Twitter hit with hack involving high-profile accounts of billionaires, celebrities, and politicians, in cryptocurrency scam. Learn what happened.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
What is Formjacking and How Does it Work?

Formjacking is when cybercriminals inject malicious JavaScript code to hack a website and take over the functionality of the site's form page to collect sensitive user information.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
2019 data breaches: 4 billion records breached so far

A look at 2019 data breaches so far, arranged by business sector, plus actions you can take help protect against identity theft.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
MyHeritage data breach exposes info of more than 92 million users

MyHeritage DNA testing and family tree website investigating email and password breach, resetting all user passwords.

August 08, 2018·3 min read
What is bulletproof hosting?

Youve heard of malware, ransomware, botnets, and the like. What you dont hear about is the technology behind these threats. These threats all have to come from somewhere, theyre not just out there...

August 08, 2018·4 min read
Mazar BOT malware invades and erases Android devices

Android smartphone users should be aware of a dangerous new type of malware that spreads via spam SMS or MMS messages that link to a malicious app file.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
What Is Adware?

Adware, or advertising supported software, displays unwanted advertisements on your computer

August 08, 2018·2 min read
10.6 million MGM Resorts guests had personal info exposed in breach

The personal info of more than 10.6 million guests who stayed at MGM Resorts was exposed in a data breach and posted on a hacking forum.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
FaceApp goes viral and raises privacy worries: What you need to know

If you download FaceApp, you can “age” your face — but possibly give up your privacy. Learn more.

August 08, 2018·4 min read
Four tax scams to watch out for this tax season

Tax season is a ripe time for phishing and spreading malware; without fail, tax-related online scams remain a most popular type of phishing scam each and every year. Through our threat intelligence network, we have identified four types of tax scams that individuals and businesses should be wary of as they’re preparing to file their taxes in 2016.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
Hundreds of malicious apps are showing up on the Google Play Store, disguised as legitimate applications.

Hundreds of malicious apps are showing up on the Google Play Store, disguised as legitimate applications.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
Over 1 billion stolen records found in dark web discovery

Over a billion stolen records have been found on the dark web. Find out more.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
Video conferencing risks when working at home: 16 ways to avoid them

Working from home may mean relying on video-conferencing to do your job. But your connection may not be private or secure.

August 08, 2018·2 min read
What is a dark web scan and can it protect your identity?

Your personal information might be for sale on the dark web. A dark web scan can help you find out if your information has been exposed.

August 07, 2018·4 min read
What to look for when buying antivirus software

Selecting the right antivirus software for your devices is one of the most important things you can do for your digital safety. Know what to look for before you choose an antivirus.

August 07, 2018·3 min read
How to safely and securely use USB memory sticks

You may have noticed growing reports in the media about the dangers of using USB memory sticks. A malicious USB device can install malware such as backdoor Trojans, information stealers and much more.

August 07, 2018·2 min read
Is paying for antivirus software worth it?

Since our personal safety takes precedence over everything, it’s safe to say that our digital security is a close second. This brings us to one the biggest challenges of Internet security – free vs paid internet security.

August 07, 2018·2 min read
How a Gmail password stealing scam works

Sophisticated cybercriminals have devised a way to steal email credentials that bypasses two-factor authentication security and doesnt rely on otherwise easy-to-spot phishing methods. Heres what you...

January 18, 2018·2 min read
What is smishing?

Smishing is a form of phishing that involves a text message or phone number. It's becoming an emerging and growing threat in the world of online security. Read on to find out what it is and how you can protect yourself against it.

January 18, 2018·3 min read
How Do Cybercriminals Get Caught?

Cybercriminals use sophisticated tactics to commit crimes. It takes a village to catch a cybercriminal since the method of how they commit these crimes is so complicated. Law enforcement usually has to coordinate with government agencies, international partners, and private corporations.

January 18, 2018·4 min read
Is it safe to download free ebooks online?

As more and more people lean towards reading in a digital format, here are a few things to keep in mind when reading ebooks. Never download pirated ebooks and always buy books and digital content from legitimate retailers. Some ebooks may contain malicious software that can install malware, spyware, and viruses in your computer.

January 18, 2018·2 min read
What you need to do about the WPA2 Wi-Fi network vulnerability

Until your Wi-Fi enabled devices have a security patch for the KRACK vulnerability here are some steps to take to help secure your devices.

January 18, 2018·3 min read

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