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The digital world offers convenience but also exposes us to advanced cyber threats. Beyond common risks like weak passwords and phishing, hackers now use more creative methods to access personal and business accounts. Phishing attacks have surged by over 1,265 percent, driven largely by generative AI. These aren’t the clumsy scams of the past. Today’s attacks are faster, more targeted, and harder to detect.
As cybercriminals employ increasingly sophisticated tactics—including artificial intelligence (AI powered attacks) and social engineering—the nature of attacks is evolving at a rapid pace. This article will examine seven notable hacking techniques and provide actionable recommendations to enhance the security of your accounts and safeguard your digital assets.
What Are the Most Common Hacking Techniques?
Over time, hacking tactics have evolved alongside advancements in technology and human behavior. While brute force attacks and password guessing still exist, modern hackers are deploying far more strategic and effective methods.
Social engineering is one such approach, where attackers manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information. Credential stuffing—reusing stolen login data from previous breaches—is another growing concern. Meanwhile, AI-powered attacks are enabling hackers to mimic legitimate communications, even exploiting certain security systems.
Understanding these core methods is essential, as they form the foundation for many of the more advanced—and surprising—attack strategies discussed in this article.
How Do Hackers Exploit Lesser-Known Vulnerabilities?
Many cyberattacks don’t start with obvious flaws—they exploit overlooked areas of digital security. Here are seven surprising ways hackers can access your accounts:
1. Cookie Hijacking
Cookies store session data to make login easier—but they’re a prime target for hackers. By stealing cookies via malicious links or unsecured networks, attackers can impersonate you and gain account access without needing your password.
2. SIM Swapping
Hackers can convince mobile carriers to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card under their control. Once completed, they can intercept two-factor authentication (2FA) codes and reset passwords to gain access to your accounts.
3. Deepfake Impersonation
Deepfake technology allows cybercriminals to create realistic video or audio messages impersonating trusted individuals. Used in targeted social engineering campaigns, these can be highly convincing and difficult to detect.
4. Exploiting Third-Party Apps
Linked apps often have weaker security protocols. If a connected third-party app is compromised, hackers may gain access to your primary accounts as well.
5. Port-Out Fraud
Similar to SIM swapping, port-out fraud involves transferring your number to another mobile provider without your consent. This allows attackers to intercept authentication calls and texts, bypassing security protections.
6. Keylogging Malware
Installed secretly, keyloggers record everything you type, capturing passwords, usernames, and even credit card numbers without your knowledge.
7. AI-Powered Phishing
Gone are the days of poorly written scam emails. Today’s phishing attacks are powered by AI and tailored to appear legitimate, often mirroring communication styles from known contacts or brands.
How Can You Protect Yourself from These Threats?
The good news is that proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk. Here’s how to stay ahead of these increasingly sophisticated threats:
Strengthen Your Authentication Methods
Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication. App-based or hardware token methods are more secure than SMS-based options.
Monitor Account Activity
Set up alerts for suspicious logins and routinely review your account activity for any unauthorised changes.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing sensitive information on public networks to prevent session hijacking and other attacks.
Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps
Review app permissions before granting access to your accounts. Remove access for any app or service you no longer use.
Learn to Spot Phishing
Examine email addresses, look for unusual language, and avoid clicking unknown links. When in doubt, verify directly with the source.
What Additional Cybersecurity Measures Should You Take?
A strong cybersecurity posture requires more than just reacting to threats. Here are foundational practices to adopt:
Keep Software Updated
Outdated applications are a prime target for attackers. Install security patches and updates as soon as they become available.
Backup Your Data
Follow the 3-2-1 rule: three copies of your data, on two types of storage, with one copy offsite. This ensures data recovery in case of ransomware or loss.
Use Encrypted Communication
For sensitive exchanges, opt for encrypted messaging and email services to reduce interception risks.
Invest in Cybersecurity Education
Whether you’re a business leader or an individual user, ongoing awareness training is key. Understanding how hackers operate helps prevent costly mistakes.