What are the new methods of hacking bank accounts and cards? And how can you protect yourself?

Dive into the world of modern digital threats and discover how to effectively secure your banking data against hacking.

Methods for hacking bank accounts and cards are constantly evolving, taking advantage of new technologies and security loopholes.

Here are some of the latest techniques:

1. Targeted phishing (Spear Phishing):Phishing, or phishing, is a common fraud technique where Attackers send personalized, believable emails or messages to trick users into divulging their login or credit card information. Emails that appear to come from a trusted source to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information. They often use personal information found on social networks to make their messages more convincing. Phishing methods are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with emails and websites that closely mimic those of financial institutions, making fraud detection difficult for unsuspecting users. Variants such as Spear Phishing target specific individuals with personal information to increase the likelihood of success.

2. Banking malware: Specific malware is designed to infect devices and steal banking information. It can be hidden in e-mail attachments, unofficial application downloads or compromised websites. Once installed, this software can record keystrokes, collect form data or even redirect users to fake banking sites and take screenshots. 

3. Card skimming: Card skimming, or magnetic stripe copying, is a method where criminals use a small device called a 'skimmer' to read and record information from the magnetic stripe of a credit or debit card. These devices can be discreetly installed on payment terminals or ATMs to copy information from the cards' magnetic stripe. Increasingly, contactless (NFC) skimmers can steal information simply by being close to contactless cards.

4. Social engineering attacks: Social engineering involves the use of deception to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise their banking security. Attackers may pose as bank employees, technical support staff or other trusted entities. These crooks often exploit victims' trust or fear to get what they want. 

5. SIM Swapping(mobile identity hijacking): Cybercriminals take control of a victim's phone number by duping the mobile service provider. This can enable hackers to intercept SMS verification messages and gain unauthorized access to bank accounts.

How to protect yourself:

To protect yourself against hacking, it's vital to adopt good cybersecurity practices. Use strong, unique passwords for each account, change them regularly and consider using a password manager. Keep abreast of the latest scams and hacking red flags. Frequently review your bank statements for unknown transactions, and set up alerts for unusual activity on your accounts. Finally, don't hesitate to report any suspicious activity to your bank and the police.

1. Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA for your bank and other sensitive accounts. Prefer authentication apps over SMS for greater security and to contact the operator immediately if phone service is suddenly interrupted.

2. Check communication sources: Be wary of unsolicited e-mails and messages requesting personal information. It's essential to be vigilant and never click on links or provide personal information without checking the authenticity of the source. Always check e-mail addresses and links before clicking. To counter social engineering, it's essential to be skeptical of unexpected requests for personal information and always contact the organization concerned by official means to verify any suspicious requests.

3. Regularly update software: Make sure your operating systems, browsers and applications are always up to date with the latest security fixes. Keep all systems and applications up to date with the latest security patches, and be cautious when downloading applications or opening e-mail attachments.

4. Use security software: Install and keep up-to-date quality antivirus and anti-malware software. Use a firewall to protect your network. 

5. Protect yourself against skimming: it's advisable to carefully monitor payment devices for any suspicious additions, protect the PIN code with your hand when entering it, and favor contactless or chip payments where possible.

6. Monitor bank statements: Check your bank statements regularly for any suspicious activity. Report any unauthorized transactions immediately.

7. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks: Don't bank on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN if you need to access sensitive information from a public network.

8. Educate and raise awareness: Learn to recognize the signs of phishing attacks and other common scams. Educate your loved ones to be vigilant too.

Awareness and prevention are your best defenses against hacking. By following these tips and remaining vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of bank fraud.