Getting hacked can be a scary and frustrating experience. Your personal information, financial accounts, and computer files may suddenly be in the hands of a malicious hacker. But what does this process actually look like from start to finish? Understanding the methods hackers use and the stages of an attack can help you better protect yourself online.
How do hackers gain access to your accounts and devices?
Hackers employ a variety of techniques to breach security and access private data. Some common methods include:
- Phishing – Deceiving emails or websites that trick users into sharing login credentials or downloading malware.
- Brute force attacks – Software that inputs many password combinations until guessing the correct one.
- Exploiting unpatched software vulnerabilities – Taking advantage of flaws or bugs in apps and operating systems.
- Infecting devices with malware – Malicious software that allows remote access to a system.
- Physical access to devices – Physically using a computer or phone to access data.
With enough time, resources, and dedication, hackers are adept at finding digital entry points. No online account is completely immune from their efforts.
What information are hackers looking for?
Hackers seek out any data of value. Most commonly targeted information includes:
- Login credentials – Usernames and passwords to access accounts.
- Financial information – Bank account and credit card numbers.
- Personal records – Social security numbers, contact info, birthdates.
- Private communications – Emails, DMs, texts, photos.
- Device info – Saved files, browsing history, device locations.
With this sensitive information, hackers may spy on users, steal identities, empty bank accounts, or sell data on the dark web. No detail is too small for hackers to leverage for profit or malice.
Stages of a cyber attack
Most hacks follow a similar sequence of events. Understanding each stage can help identify and stop an attack early on.
Reconnaissance
This initial information gathering phase is crucial but rarely noticed by victims. Hackers research potential targets, gathering data such as:
- Associated accounts and usernames.
- Email addresses and phone numbers.
- Personal details listed online.
- Linked devices and accounts.
Armed with this intel, hackers craft more precise future attacks. Patients and anonymity pay off during reconnaissance.
Gaining access
Next, hackers leverage the fruits of their research to gain access through:
- Cracking or guessing login info.
- Exploiting a security flaw or bug.
- Tricking victims into compromising themselves.
- Infecting a system with malware.
Once inside, hackers often seek to expand their access even further.
Escalating privileges
Now logged into an initial account, hackers use various techniques to increase their privileges, such as:
- Cracking additional passwords.
- Stealing session cookies.
- Installing backdoors and remote access tools.
- Manipulating error messages.
- Exploiting vulnerabilities.
Their goal is total control over data and system functions.
Harvesting data
At this stage, hackers rummage through the target system and accounts, collecting as much data as possible. They may:
- Copy or delete files.
- Install spyware.
- Take screenshots.
- Record keystrokes.
- Forward emails.
- Download databases.
This personal and financial information becomes ammunition for identity theft, blackmail, or sale on the dark web.
Covering tracks
To avoid detection, hackers then cover their trail by:
- Deleting logs and history.
- Disabling security tools.
- Creating hidden user accounts.
- Making their malware difficult to detect.
- Removing stolen data from original sources.
When done skillfully, victims may not even realize their systems were compromised. Hackers may also periodically re-access systems later on through backdoors.
Monetizing the hack
Finally, hackers leverage the stolen data to generate profit. They may:
- Sell personal info and credit cards on the dark web.
- Drain bank accounts.
- Extort victims by threatening to release sensitive data.
- Illegally wire money to themselves.
- Post embarrassing or compromising details online.
- Commit tax fraud or health insurance fraud.
For opportunistic hackers, stolen data translates directly into lucrative paydays.
Signs your accounts may be compromised
Spotting some of the following unusual activity may indicate a hack:
- Unexpected password reset emails.
- Login notifications from unknown locations.
- Suspicious transactions and activities.
- Shut out of your own accounts.
- Contacts receiving spam from your accounts.
- New apps or programs on your devices.
- Antivirus warnings of malware detections.
- Devices running slowly or crashing frequently.
Unfortunately, many hacks go unnoticed for weeks or months. But catching on early can help limit the damage.
Review account activity and history
Carefully review your online accounts for any unusual actions, like:
- Posts or messages you didn’t create.
- New connections and followers.
- Unfamiliar email forwarding setup.
- Signs of spyware or keylogging.
- Changed profile details.
Checking your settings, privacy, apps, and linked accounts can also uncover trouble. Enabling login notifications is wise.
Scan devices for malware and viruses
Your computer or phone may show signs of infection, such as:
- Delayed performance.
- Frequent crashes or freezes.
- Overheating.
- Odd popups.
- Programs running without prompting.
Run scans with updated antivirus software to check for issues. Also update your operating system and apps frequently.
Review credit reports and financial statements
Identity thieves can open fraudulent credit cards and accounts in your name. Check for:
- Unknown credit cards and loans.
- Incorrect balances and charges.
- New addresses and phone numbers.
- Suspicious activity across all accounts.
- Unexplainable drops in credit scores.
Monitor all financial accounts routinely for unauthorized transactions.
How to protect yourself from hackers
While no one is hack-proof, following cyber security best practices substantially lowers your risks:
Use strong unique passwords
Weak reused passwords are easy pickings for hackers. Use long, randomized passwords for every account, or a password manager. Enable two-factor authentication when possible.
Keep software updated
Promptly install the latest security patches which fix vulnerabilities. Use antivirus tools and firewalls as well.
Avoid unsecured Wi-Fi networks
Public Wi-Fi allows hackers to spy on your browsing. Use trusted networks or a VPN when out and about.
Watch out for phishing tactics
Don’t click suspicious links or attachments which can install malware. Hover over links to inspect their actual destination.
Be wary of public PCs and charging stations
Shared devices may be infected. Avoid entering sensitive info on them or plugging in your phone.
Regularly back up your data
Routinely backing up to an external device preserves your files if your system is compromised.
Disable features when not needed
Turn off Bluetooth, remote access tools, file sharing, and Windows admin features when not using them.
Monitor accounts and credit
Review account activity frequently for misuse. Check credit reports at least once a year for anomalies.
Limit personal info shared online
Closely guard personal data which fuels phishing and account access. Share minimally and only when required.
| Stage | What hackers do |
|---|---|
| Reconnaissance | Research and gather background info on targets |
| Gaining access | Crack passwords, exploit flaws, use malware to breach systems |
| Escalating privileges | Increase their system access through additional exploits |
| Harvesting data | Steal personal, financial, and confidential info from compromised accounts |
| Covering tracks | Delete logs, create backdoors, and erase stolen data remnants |
| Monetizing the hack | Profit off stolen data through fraud, extortion, identity theft or dark web sales |
Conclusion
Getting hacked can happen through clever phishing, malware, or simply weak passwords. Understanding how attacks progress arms you with knowledge to detect issues early and protect yourself. Lock down accounts with strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Monitor your online presence and devices for misuse. And implement robust antivirus software, updates, backups, and safe browsing practices. Remember, vigilance is your best defense against the persistent threats facing our digital lives today.