Internet Safty
By Joe Cronin
Access To Gadgets
Gadget Hacking
Got a smartphone? An iPhone, iPad, Windows Phone or even an Android? If so, be warned.
More and more users of smart gadgets are getting hacked while surfing the Web or using an app that connects to the Internet. Why? The recent explosion of gadgets has made it much more lucrative and easier for hackers to hack into your device.
So what happens if they hack into your phone?
- A hacker might gain access to financial information or passwords you may have on your gadget, or even worse, continually track your financial dealings online. Bingo, your accounts are drained and your credit cards maxed out
- Hackers are also kidnapping phone numbers and accounts and running up thousands of pounds of charges before you even realize your account has been kidnapped. You may not have to pay for these calls but it could take you weeks or months to get your account straight.
What can you do?
- Before you buy a smart gadget ask the sales person to walk you through the gadget’s security features.
- If you’re buying online, search the gadget’s website for info on its security measures.
- Do a web search on “security problems with [name of gadget].” If the gadget has a lot of negative reviews, don’t buy it.
- Go high-tech! Think about adding goodies like a fingerprint scanner or a face recognition device to your gadget. A web search will give you lots of high-security options for scanners and recognition systems.
Consequences: Assembly for 11 16 year olds