While you might think that WI-FI eavesdropping and cyber hacking is the biggest online threat to your security, you might be surprised to know that social engineering is an even bigger threat! This is really no surprise, considering how trusting we are in an unfamiliar world. The very real threat of social engineering is one of the best reasons to order VPN hosting to protect yourself from this sort of “human hacking.”
By definition, social engineering refers to the manipulation of people, as in getting them to show confidential information by assuming a role or a pretense of trustworthiness. What makes this unique from fraud is the lack of face-to-face interaction. There is actually a complete science to social engineering, considering that much of the master plan is based in psychology; specifically in “cognitive biases” which affect each person’s decision-making ability. The best way to combat this fraud activity is to invest in VPN hosting.
One of the most common examples of social engineering is pretexting (by creating a scenario for a targeted victim that exploits the victim’s fear of an outrageous situation occurring). Usually, the con artist scouts the person in advance. Another type is that of diversion theft, which is used to persuade the victim of a lie, even though there is actually legitimate delivery involved. The technique of phishing involves creating a fake website, address or email that appears to be a legitimate company requiring information. VPN hosting can help prevent schemes like this from succeeding.
IVR (Interactive Voice Response) and telephone phishing are also common in this day and age, as people almost always presume that a real person’s voice is telling the truth. Baiting is the practice of using a “real-world Trojan Horse” from computer media that has a hidden malware program. It is human instinct to peek at the files found on this conspicuously placed disk or flash drive. Once the system is inserted and “run” it is installed on the PC and gives the crook access to the user’s computer.
Another common scenario is quid pro quo, which refers to a fraudster cold-calling people, claiming to be “calling back.” It is only a matter of time before they find someone who really is waiting on a phone call and willing to reveal information.
Here’s a startling statistic: according to The Register, over 90% of all office workers fell for a controlled password scheme in exchange for a free pen. One of the reasons social engineering works is because the fraudster always offers something in return. Beware of social engineering and protect yourself with VPN hosting!
If you can not afford paid VPN you can also use free VPN services like SecurityKiss,ProXPN with 2048 bit security. Paid services are also available with these providers.
Irene Perlog is a dedicated writer at VPNServices.net, where she is reviewing the best VPN providers. If interested you can check out aHidemyass review (only original and objective reviews).
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