Kaspersky reminds public to practice ‘digital hygiene’

FILE – The sign is seen above the headquarters of Kaspersky Lab in Moscow Monday, Jan. 30, 2017. The cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has denied it is a security threat after the U.S. Commerce Department banned use of its software in the United States. Kaspersky said in a statement that the Commerce Department’s decision, announced Thursday, June 20, 2024, would not affect its ability to sell and promote its cyber threat intelligence offerings and training in the U.S. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin, File)

Anti-virus software developer Kaspersky warned Filipinos against cyber threats that target the public both online and offline, reminding them to always practice digital hygiene.

In a statement on Monday, the cybersecurity firm noted that 26.8 percent of Filipino users dealt with web-borne cyberattacks in the fourth quarter of last year.

READ: Kaspersky to public: Use strong, unique passwords to repel hackers

Web attacks come in different forms, including the typical phishing emails embedded with suspicious web addresses linking to fake websites where unsuspecting victims will be tricked into providing sensitive information.

Meanwhile, offline attacks—or local threats—affected 19.3 percent of users in the country last year.

Local threat is a malicious software spread via removable devices like flash drives, CDs (compact disc) and DVDs (digital versatile disc).

“This year is a chance for Filipinos to take charge of their online safety by building stronger defenses and staying one step ahead of cybercriminals,” said Adrian Hia, Kaspersky managing director for Asia Pacific.

Kaspersky reminded enterprises to keep their software updated to lessen vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers, in addition to regularly backing up critical data.

Organizations must also always monitor its network activity for unusual behavior, it stressed. Kaspersky said it would also be helpful if the network access is only limited to certain officials and employees.

The cybersecurity company advised companies as well to educate their employees about the emerging digital threats and to train their cybersecurity teams.

On the part of consumers, the cybersecurity firm reminded Filipinos to use strong and unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for all accounts.

The users must also avoid clicking on suspicious links which can trick them into providing sensitive and personal information.

“By adopting these measures, businesses and individuals can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals while fostering a safer digital environment,” Kaspersky said.

According to cybersecurity firm Check Point, Philippine enterprises need to watch out for the further proliferation of digital attacks backed by artificial intelligence (AI) this year.

The AI-supported threats include the typical phishing emails that are crafted with “flawless grammar,” making them more deceiving in the eyes of the recipients.