Last week, millions of encrypted passwords were posted on the hacker website LifePro, according to reports. On June 6, the professional networking site LinkedIn and online dating site eHarmony acknowledged in blog posts that some of the hacked passwords were for their accounts. The full ramifications of this security breach are still unknown, but spyware removal experts across the country are bracing themselves for a hit.
Several tech publications warn that, although there was no username information posted with the passwords, the hackers no doubt had those details. There is also speculation that the passwords listed were just the ones the cybercriminals needed help with, so there may be more that they've already cracked.
So, if hackers have access to your LinkedIn or eHarmony account, what will they actually do with that information? After consulting with Chester Wisniewski, the senior security adviser at Sophos, a data security firm, Will Oremus posted a few ideas on the online publication Slate.
Once hackers have access to your LinkedIn account, they can use your information to prey on your colleagues. They can use a tactic called "spear phishing," which involves tricking users into downloading malware by sending them malicious links or files from contacts they trust.
Finally, the publication warns that this incident has laid the foundation for one more strategy. In light of all the attention on password security, hackers may send users emails, seemingly from the two targeted websites, encouraging them to follow a link and change their passwords. To avoid this, Oremus advises account-holders to go to the websites directly to make adjustments.
Even if your accounts haven't been hacked, you may still be exposed to viruses and spyware through your online contacts. But, you can take comfort in the fact that companies like Geeks On-site can provide fast and effective Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. spyware removal services when you need them.
For more information about Computer Repair Maryland, please visit our site www.877geeksonsite.com.
Several tech publications warn that, although there was no username information posted with the passwords, the hackers no doubt had those details. There is also speculation that the passwords listed were just the ones the cybercriminals needed help with, so there may be more that they've already cracked.
So, if hackers have access to your LinkedIn or eHarmony account, what will they actually do with that information? After consulting with Chester Wisniewski, the senior security adviser at Sophos, a data security firm, Will Oremus posted a few ideas on the online publication Slate.
Once hackers have access to your LinkedIn account, they can use your information to prey on your colleagues. They can use a tactic called "spear phishing," which involves tricking users into downloading malware by sending them malicious links or files from contacts they trust.
Finally, the publication warns that this incident has laid the foundation for one more strategy. In light of all the attention on password security, hackers may send users emails, seemingly from the two targeted websites, encouraging them to follow a link and change their passwords. To avoid this, Oremus advises account-holders to go to the websites directly to make adjustments.
Even if your accounts haven't been hacked, you may still be exposed to viruses and spyware through your online contacts. But, you can take comfort in the fact that companies like Geeks On-site can provide fast and effective Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. spyware removal services when you need them.
For more information about Computer Repair Maryland, please visit our site www.877geeksonsite.com.
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