10 common cybersecurity myths and misconceptions

The truth behind 10 common cybersecurity myths

In this section, we will debunk the top 10 most common cybersecurity myths and misconceptions, such as the idea that only the IT department is responsible for data on your work laptop or that a third-party security provider alone can keep you safe. Understanding the truth behind these myths will help you take smarter steps to protect your digital life.

1. Myth: I don’t browse much, so I’m not at risk. It’s a common misconception that you must wander into the more illicit corners of the internet to put yourself at risk of cybercrime. However, cybercriminals use tactics such as phishing, malvertising, and Wi-Fi spying to deliver malware and steal data without you even realizing it. As long as you’re online, you could be at risk.
2. Myth: I don’t use a computer, so I can’t be hacked. Any device with an operating system can be hacked, whether it’s your phone, laptop, router, or smart TV. Surprisingly, even official app stores can host malicious software. You might think you’re downloading a game or a photo editor, but you could infect your device with malware instead. Hackers often exploit the popularity of mobile apps by creating convincing copycats. These fake apps are designed to steal your personal information, credit card details, and passwords.
3. Myth: Antivirus software is enough. While antivirus or anti-malware software helps protect your computer and smartphone from viruses, they aren’t enough. Hackers are always looking for new security flaws, and antivirus programs can’t always keep up with the latest threats. Many cybercriminals, instead of viruses, will use social engineering techniques to trick you into giving away private information and passwords. Imagine you’re looking for new sneakers, find a great deal with a well-known retailer, and proceed to the payment page. A hacker could have created a fake website that looks just like the original to steal your data.
4. Myth: It’s just a work laptop — nothing important is on it. Every employee’s laptop is a potential entry point into the company’s network, where sensitive data, such as millions of customers’ credit card details, names, purchase histories, emails, home addresses, and phone numbers, are stored. This information is highly valuable on the dark web. If leaked, it could endanger countless people and ruin your company’s reputation. In 2024, the average cost of a data breach for a company is a record $4.88 million. With many people working from home, it’s important to use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect not only your own digital identity but also the privacy of those whose data is stored by the company.
5. Myth: Cyber threats are only external. According to Verizon research, external threats cause 65% of most data breaches. However, internal threats are on the rise, accounting for 35% of data breaches in 2024, up from 20% in 2023. The significant increase in security incidents indicates that insiders are becoming a greater risk. These incidents can result from mistakes due to insufficient cybersecurity training or deliberate malicious actions.
6. Myth: I’d notice if my computer had a virus. Some viruses can hide on your computer for months before you accidentally activate them, while others immediately start working in the background. Modern viruses are hard to notice because your system might run smoothly and seem okay until it’s too late. If you download a virus, it can steal your details in minutes. Imagine the damage it can do if left unchecked for days or even months.
7. Myth: I have nothing to hide. Yes, you do. You wouldn’t hand your online banking and social media passwords to a stranger, would you? Our lives revolve around digital services, and every account increases the risk of getting hacked. For example, ransomware can encrypt your hard drive, locking you out of your files and system. In 2017, the WannaCry ransomware infected over 200,000 computers in 150 countries, demanding Bitcoin payments. While the original 2017 version no longer functions, WannaCry attacks continue to occur.
8. Myth: A strong password is enough. Creating a strong password is important, but remembering it can be challenging. This is where a password manager becomes invaluable. However, even strong passwords are vulnerable if they are reused across multiple sites. A data breach on one site can compromise all your accounts using the same password. To further enhance your security, consider using two-factor authentication (2FA). With 2FA, after you enter your password, you must also verify your identity through an additional method such as an app, SMS, or token. This way, even if cyberattackers steal your password, multi-factor authentication makes unauthorized access much more difficult.
9. Myth: Phishing links are obvious. This myth used to be true, but not anymore. Hackers can create phishing links that look legitimate using company logos, along with the names and email addresses of people or organizations you know and trust. To avoid phishing attacks, always double-check the sender’s email address.
10. Myth: Apple devices can’t be hacked. Many believe Apple products are immune to cyberattacks, but this isn’t true. Macs, iPhones, and iPads can be hacked, and users who think their devices are safe are more at risk for data loss.

Get ahead of the hackers: Strengthen your cybersecurity

Cyberattacks are everywhere, making it more important than ever to protect your online activity. With a VPN enabled, you can get ahead of hackers and safeguard your device from Wi-Fi spying and man-in-the-middle attacks. VPN technology, combined with common sense and extra security measures, will significantly lower your online risks.

NordVPN takes your privacy and security to the next level. It redirects your traffic through an encrypted tunnel, ensuring that your data is for your eyes only. Its Threat Protection Pro™ feature scans the files you download for malware and blocks malicious URLs, keeping your device safe. It also stops third-party trackers and intrusive ads from following you around the internet so you can browse in privacy.

However, remember that no security tool will protect you from losing data you give away willingly. As long as humans are involved, no software or tool can provide complete protection against cybercrimes.