With the recent upsurge in cyberattacks hitting users across the planet, a number of companies, media outlets and others are looking at ways to shore up safety as people browse online. With recent reports suggesting a hacker has tapped into a number of iPads and iPhones in Australia, threatening to delete personal data if users do not pay $100, looking at ways to protect oneself from cyberwarfare has become paramount to the future stability of digital devices.
The mysterious hacker has had a number of complaints filed against him on Apple forums, demanding that the hacker "Oleg Pliss" be held accountable and that users can once again access their tablets and smartphones' data without being forced to pay any money.
Based on many of the posts on the forums, users have seen their iPad and other Apple services be compromised by the hacker, who is demanding $100 via PayPal for the return of the device's access.
"iPad woke me at 4.30am with the message 'Your device has been hacked by Oleg Pliss' and sound -- I thought it was the morning alarm," wrote user deskokat.
It has, however, brought to light the issue of smartphone security, and with the past year of reporting on security issues after National Security Agency (NSA) whistleblower Edward Snowden revealed massive spying, the general population is looking for ways to ensure their devices and information are not compromised.
But experts have said there are a number of easy ways that users can protect themselves from potential hackers and keep their personal information safeguarded from prying eyes.
One of the best and easiest ways to do so is to change your password often and maintain a strong, longer password than normal. This will make it difficult for hackers to use password hacking software to access your account.
In addition to changing your passwords, do not use similar passwords for multiple accounts, especially if those are important accounts or financial institutions. Use different passwords for online bank accounts than the one used for your personal email.
For iPhone users in particular, maintaining a password lock on your screen is also important, as this makes it more difficult for anyone who may attempt to access your phone from entering its data. Keep in mind that this password should also be changed from time to time.
To help protect against cyberattacks, Apple has issued a series of notes that should help users better understand their protection and maintaining iPhone security
