Cybersafety: ‘If you don’t like someone you could easily get a ransomware package and try to get their data through the dark web’

Cybersafety: ‘If you don’t like someone you could easily get a ransomware package and try to get their data through the dark web’

Swiping on Instagram during a break, paying with smartwatches in a store, and connecting your smart fridge to Wi-Fi networks. Our online presence is a crucial part of our life nowadays. But when it comes to cyber safety, we are not always aware of what happens with our data. The Glass Room, an international exposition created by Tactical Technology, wants to make society familiar with the consequences of its online presence.

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During the exposition, people can see what is happening with their data even when they have not linked with Wi-Fi or another network. In that way, in combination with public security cameras, the murderer of journalist Peter R. was arrested very quickly. The same data and cameras are available to watch for everyone on the web. So, you can easily follow someone or get their personal information. Saskia Westers, Researcher and teacher Cybersafety talks further about this subject in an interview: ‘‘If you don’t like someone you could easily get a ransomware package and try to get their data through the dark web’’ But are there laws to prevent this behaviour?

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The European union organization for cybersecurity (Enisa) focuses on data in general. Every year they organize the Month of cybersecurity 2021 in October. ‘Think before you click’ is the motto this year. They organize lectures and quizzes the citizens of Europe, the European Commission, governments, and private organizations to bring everyone together with “healthy cybersecurity habits.’’

But national or international laws are not developed yet. Organizations like Enisa do research and campaign but national governments and the European Commission still need to take steps to engage security and safety online for the society. At this moment there are troubles on every level of online safety. But Saskia Westers does not think that it means that we should get discouraged: ‘’Don’t get scared of the online development. Humans are the strongest link, deepen your information about everything you buy online and to what Wi-fi network you connect.’’

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