Emerging Threats (2024)

What is smishing? How to spot + avoid an attack

Smishing is a type of phishing carried out via text message. Read this guide to learn how smishing works, warning signs, and how to stay safe.

Watering hole attack: definition + prevention tips

Learn about watering hole attacks and how to protect yourself online. Explore prevention tips and examples of these targeted cyber threats.

What is a brute force attack?

Learn how to protect yourself online with our guide to brute force attacks. Understand the types, tools, and defense strategies for this prevalent cyber threat.

Taylor Swift was targeted with deepfake nude images. Here’s why that’s so important

After a recent round of explicit deepfakes of pop stay Taylor Swift circulated on social media, we're left asking: What does this mean for the future?

Cybercriminals: Who they are and how to protect yourself

Cybercriminals use computers to commit a wide variety of crimes. Uncover common types of cybercrimes, their impact, and protection strategies.

Credential stuffing: Examples and 6 prevention tips

Find out what credential stuffing attacks look like and how they work, and discover reliable strategies for prevention.

Whaling attack: Definition + tips for prevention

Hackers wage whaling attacks against high-level executives to steal money and access confidential data. Read on to learn how you can identify and stop attacks.

What 2024 holds for the future of cybersecurity

Norton’s researchers released their 2024 cybersecurity predictions. See how AI is predicted to impact the landscape of cybersecurity.

Malware: what it is, how it works, and how to stop it

Learn how to protect your devices from malware with our comprehensive guide. Discover what it is, how to stop it, and tips to keep your digital world secure.

Cryptography Definition, Algorithm Types, and Attacks

Cryptography encrypts messages by turning them into “ciphertext” but hackers may exploit flaws to release private data—learn how to protect your communications.

What is an attack vector? 18 types + tips to avoid becoming a victim

Learn about attack vectors and strengthen your digital defenses. Discover 18 attack vectors and get tips for how to avoid these vulnerabilities.

Software piracy: Types, risks, and how to stay safe

Software piracy may be easier to commit than you think, often unintentionally. Learn about the types and the dangers so you can stay safe.

What are deepfakes? How they work and how to spot them

We’re demystifying what deepfakes are and how they affect you. Learn about their creation, use, detection, legality, and how to better protect your identity.

Don’t get blindsided while streaming sports online

Learn the dangers that come with streaming sports online and how you can avoid fumbling your info and getting sacked by cybercriminals.

What is Pegasus spyware + how to remove it from your mobile device?

Pegasus is smartphone spyware that surveils the mobile activity of criminals, but it's also been used against dissidents, journalists, and others.

What is an attack surface? Definition + reduction tips

An attack surface refers to all of the potential security risks that leave you open to cyberattacks. Learn about your attack surface and how to reduce it.

Norton Cyber Safety Pulse Report: Scams in the digital age

This Norton Cyber Safety Pulse Report explores new takes on old scams that are still prevalent in today's digital landscape and advice for how to help avoid falling victim.

From deepfakes to bitcoin: The new wave of TikTok scams and how to dodge them

Norton Labs reports on the latest TikTok scams targeting younger generations. Check out the latest tactics scammers are using, including deepfakes and bitcoin lures.

We’re celebrating a special crime-fighting icon with some hero-level digital tools

If you were a crime-fighting icon, what tools would you carry in your utility belt to stay Cyber Safe? We’ve got a few ides.

Hacktivism: Definition, types, + newsworthy attacks

Simply put, hacktivism is hacking and activism combined. Follow this guide to learn more about hacktivism, common motivations, and famous examples in the news.

Zero-day vulnerability: What it is, and how it works

A zero-day vulnerability is a software security flaw that is known to the software vendor but doesn’t have a patch in place to fix the flaw. If left unaddressed, vulnerabilities create security holes that cybercriminals can exploit. To keep your computer and data safe, it’s smart to take proactive and reactive security measures.

Deep web vs. dark web: What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between the deep web vs. the dark web? Turn to this overview to learn how they both work and for tips for those surfing the deep web and dark web.

Do tablets and smartphones need security software?

Tablets and smartphones can be vulnerable to online threats and need security software

Working from home on your own computer: 12 security tips in the COVID-19 era

Many companies were unprepared to have employees work from home due to the coronavirus outbreak. These security steps can help.

What is a firewall? Firewalls explained and why you need one

Firewalls can help keep your network, computer, and data safe and secure. Here’s how.

What exactly is a pig butchering scam?

If you ever recieve a text message from an unknown number, it may be a sign of pig butchering. Learn about this emerging scam and how to help protect yourself.

If your email does this, that’s a red flag

If you spot one of these in your email inbox, it’s a red flag. We’ve got some tips to help you spot when an email is true—and when it’s just playing you.

What is social engineering? Definition + protection tips

What is social engineering? It's a cyberattack aimed at tricking someone into divulging information or taking action. Learn more here.

What is a smurf attack? How it works + prevention tips

A smurf attack is a distributed DDoS attack that can render a computer network inoperable. Luckily, protecting yourself from surf attacks is relatively easy.

What is a zero-day exploit? Definition and prevention tips

A zero-day exploit is when hackers discover a software flaw they can use to access users’ information or devices. Hackers can target individuals or large groups.

Phictionary – the phishing dictionary every digital citizen should read

Phictionary is a guide to phishing attacks with a dictionary twist that exposes real-life examples of scams to help people proactively identify fraudulent communications.

What is a packet sniffing attack? A cybersecurity guide

A packet sniffing attack is a hacking technique that uses a packet sniffer to intercept sensitive data passing through a network.

15 types of hackers + hacking protection tips for 2024

Learn about different types of hackers and their motives. Plus, see a timeline of hacking’s evolution and tips to help you stay safe online.

What is a pass the hash attack? + How to mitigate an attack

Follow this helpful guide to help learn more about pass the hash attacks, how they work, real-life examples, and how you can help to mitigate an attack.

What is a script kiddie? Definition + examples

A script kiddie is an amateur hacker who relies on prewritten scripts. Read along to learn more about script kiddies, how they work, and how to stay safe.

15 infamous hacker groups to look for [1981 to 2024]

Hacking groups can be a major threat to your business and are widely active on the web today. Learn about the top 15 hacker groups to watch for in this guide.

What is bluejacking? Definition + protection tips

If you use Bluetooth, you may be at risk of bluejacking. Follow this guide to learn more about bluejacking, how to spot it, and how to stay safe.

Norton email scams: Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In a Norton email scam, scammers impersonate Norton through fake emails designed to trick consumers and steal their money and personal information. These answers to your FAQs can help.

What is a hacker (as explained in movie characters)? + how to protect yourself

From real-life stories to movie portrayals, you might wonder, "What is a hacker?" Read through this guide to learn how hackers work and how you can stay safe.

What is cryptojacking? An overview + prevention tips

Cryptojacking refers to the illegal use of stolen computing power to mine cryptocurrency. Read our article to learn how to detect and prevent this cybercrime.

What is a tailgating attack + how to protect yourself

If someone asks you to let them into a restricted area, it could be a tailgating attack. Read along to learn more about tailgating attacks and how to stay safe.

What is an evil twin attack? How to spot and avoid them

If you use public Wi-Fi, you may be at risk of an evil twin attack. So how do these attacks work, and how can you spot and avoid them? Read along to find out.

How to remove malware from a Mac or PC

Malicious software can threaten your cybersecurity and leak your sensitive information. Read our guide to learn how to remove malware from a Mac or PC.

What is riskware + how to spot and avoid it in 2024

Riskware refers to legitimate software that can potentially threaten your cybersecurity. Read our guide to learn how to spot and avoid riskware in 2024.

Special Issue Norton Cyber Safety Pulse Report – The Cyber Risks of ChatGPT

In this special issue of the Norton Pulse Report, Norton Labs explores how cyber criminals could leverage Chat GPT to enhance their scams.

Cybercrime outlook 2023: It’s all about the economy

Norton Labs released their 2023 cybersecurity predictions. See how the economy is expected to have an impact on cybercrime next year.

Online scams: An overview + 20 internet scams to avoid in 2024

How do online scams work? Use this guide on different types of online scams to help protect your devices and data from internet scamming and other cyberthreats.

What’s a Twitter bot and how to spot one

Twitter bots are automated Twitter accounts controlled by bot software. Learn what they do.

115 cybersecurity statistics + trends to know in 2024

Explore these 115 cybersecurity statistics to understand the latest cybercrime rates and cybersecurity trends currently shaping the hacking industry.

How to remove a fake virus alert: A step-by-step guide

A fake virus alert is a deceptive hacking tool. Learn how to remove fake virus pop-ups, spot warning signs, as well as tips to help keep your devices safe.

12 social media threats to watch for in 2024

Dive into the top social media threats to know in 2024 and beyond, and learn how to better protect your accounts. Read more from the Norton blog.

Ransomware statistics: 102 facts and trends you need to know

Use this overview of 102 ransomware statistics to learn about the latest ransomware attacks and how to better protect your personal devices and information.

Dictionary attack: A definition + 10 dictionary attack protection tips

Use this dictionary attack guide as an overview of how dictionary attacks work, real-life examples, and protection tips to help keep your data safe.

DDoS attacks: A simplified guide + DDoS attack protection tips

Learn how you can help avoid DDoS attacks with this all-in-one protection guide, featuring different types of DDoS attacks and tips to stay Cyber Safe.

Password spraying 101: An overview + password spraying protection tips

Password spraying is when cybercriminals guess the passwords of their potential victims, often on a large scale. Learn how to protect your credentials.

Password attack 101: A definition + 10 types of password attacks to avoid

This password attack protection guide overviews common types of password attacks, as well as password attack prevention tips to help improve your privacy and cybersecurity.

What are Denial of Service (DoS) attacks? DoS attacks explained

A Denial of Service (DoS) attack can be easily engineered from nearly any location. Learn more about what it is and how it works.

What is the difference between black, white and gray hat hackers?

Hackers can be categorized by the type of metaphorical “hat” they wear. What is the difference between black hat, white hat, and gray hat hackers? Learn more.

What is the difference between black, white and gray hat hackers?

Hackers can be categorized by the type of metaphorical “hat” they wear. What is the difference between black hat, white hat, and gray hat hackers? Learn more.

Shareware: An overview + the cost of ‘free’ software

Shareware is a type of software that is freely distributed to users. The intent of the software developer is to convert free users to paying customers in the future.

What is an advanced persistent threat (APT)?

Consider this your go-to guide for advanced persistent threat protection, including how APT attacks work and APT attacks to watch for.

Cyberattacks on the rise: What to do before and after a cyberattack or data breach

You can’t prevent a cyberattack or a data breach, but there are steps you can take to help prepare for and react to one.

Data loss prevention: What is DLP + how does it work?

What are data loss prevention tools you can use to protect your network? Read further to educate yourself on some DLP best practices and level up your cybersecurity as a whole.

Holiday cybercrime statistics + tips to protect against threats

Holiday cybercrime statistics are hard to break out, but it’s fair to say some cybercrimes are known to appear around holidays. Here’s what you need to know.

What to do after 5 types of data breaches

Learn what to do after 5 types of data breaches. Find out how to help protect yourself against possible identity theft.

GPS spoofing: What it is + spoofing attacks to watch for

An overview of GPS spoofing, meaning when technology or a person alters data so that a device appears in a different location or time zone, and how to avoid it.

What is a zero-day exploit?

Get an overview of what a zero-day exploit is and how zero-day attacks work. Plus, learn about other zero-day definitions from the Norton blog.

T-Mobile investigating data breach. Data of more than 40 million existing and prospective customers exposed

T-Mobile has confirmed unauthorized access to its data and is investigating the extent of the incident, after reports that sensitive data of 100 million T-Mobile USA customers is for sale on the web.

115 cybersecurity statistics and trends you need to know in 2021

Cybercrimes cost the world $6 trillion a year by 2021, according to cybersecurity ventures. Large data breaches and cyberthreats from foreign locales such as China and Russia threaten elections. Experts worry that 5G technology will create additional cybersecurity challenges for businesses.

What is the dark web? The dark web defined and explained

The dark web is often used by cybercriminals. But it’s also visited by journalists, law enforcement agencies and others.

15 work-from-home security tips: Security best practices for remote workers

If you decide to work remote, it’s important to keep cyber safety in mind. That means protecting your devices and data, just like you would in the workplace.

How you can fight disinformation on social media

Here’s a look at the challenges facing social media platforms and how you can steer clear of disinformation this season.

5 election scams to avoid

Here’s a sample of common election scams and advice for outwitting the scammers behind them.

How to spot deepfake videos — 15 signs to watch for

Deepfake videos could have serious implications during the 2020 election season. Learn why.

What is a distributed denial of service attack (DDoS) and what can you do about them?

A distributed denial-of-service attack is one of the most powerful weapons on the internet. A DDoS attack is a cyberattack on a server, service, website, or network that floods it with Internet traffic. The aim is to overwhelm the website or service with more traffic than the server or network can accommodate.

Phone hijacking: When criminals take over your phone and everything in it

Hackers have figured out a way to hijack cell phones and steal the valuable information contained in them. Find out how criminals go after emails, photographs and payment apps to commit larger crimes like blackmail, fraud and theft. Learn how to keep your identity safe.

Biometric data breach: Database exposes fingerprints, facial recognition data of 1 million people

Biometric data breach: Could cybercriminals use your biometric data to commit identity theft or other crimes?

Ransomware – what can you do about it

Malicious software that uses encryption to hold data for ransom has become wildly successful over the last few years. The purpose of this software is to extort money from the victims with promises of restoring encrypted data.

PC or Mac: Which is more resistant to cyber threats?

Cyber criminals are not run-of-the-mill street hooligans. Assailants of online crimes are educated, tech-savvy, sophisticated individuals who dont care if you prefer PC to Mac or vice versa. There...

Watch out for "free" movie and television scams during big events

Since streaming video content has become mostly commonplace, cybercriminals have taken notice, and are spreading spyware and malware on many social media platforms via comments

High-profile people and companies among Twitter accounts hacked in Bitcoin scam: Here’s what to watch out for

Twitter hit with hack involving high-profile accounts of billionaires, celebrities, and politicians, in cryptocurrency scam. Learn what happened.

Is paying for antivirus software worth it?

Since our personal safety takes precedence over everything, it’s safe to say that our digital security is a close second. This brings us to one the biggest challenges of Internet security – free vs paid internet security.

Mazar BOT malware invades and erases Android devices

Android smartphone users should be aware of a dangerous new type of malware that spreads via spam SMS or MMS messages that link to a malicious app file.

Hundreds of malicious apps are showing up on the Google Play Store, disguised as legitimate applications.

Hundreds of malicious apps are showing up on the Google Play Store, disguised as legitimate applications.

Over 1 billion stolen records found in dark web discovery

Over a billion stolen records have been found on the dark web. Your personal information may be out there and available for a price.

What Is Adware?

Adware, or advertising supported software, displays unwanted advertisem*nts on your computer

Targeted attacks now moving into the IoT and router space

Recently, there have been reports about state sponsored, targeted attacks moving into the router and IoT security space. Read more to see how this affects you.

Windows 10 compatibility with Norton products

As a Norton customer, you are always entitled to download the latest version of your Norton product for free during your service period. Existing customers are...

What is Formjacking and How Does it Work?

Formjacking is when cybercriminals inject malicious JavaScript code to hack a website and take over the functionality of the site's form page to collect sensitive user information

2019 data breaches: 4 billion records breached so far

A look at 2019 data breaches so far, arranged by business sector, plus actions you can take help protect against identity theft.

What is bulletproof hosting?

Youve heard of malware, ransomware, botnets, and the like. What you dont hear about is the technology behind these threats. These threats all have to come from somewhere, theyre not just out there...

Home security camera and doorbells: tips to help secure your devices

Hackers can set their sights on Ring and other home security cameras, and that has made some customers feel less than secure.

Chrome Zero Day Vulnerability - Why You Should Update Google Chrome Immediately

Click here to learn about the Google Chrome Zero Day vulnerability and why you should update your browser. Read on to learn more.

What is a dark web scan and can it protect your identity?

Your personal information might be for sale on the dark web. A dark web scan can help you find out if your information has been exposed.

Personal information of 143 million people may have been exposed in Equifax data breach

Equifax has announced that cybercriminals have exploited a vulnerability in their website, allowing them to gain access to certain files. The data breach appears to have taken place from mid-May through July 2017.

2020 Election Cybersecurity: Protecting U.S. elections against cybercrime

The 2020 U.S. elections face major cybersecurity threats. Learn what they are and what the U.S. is doing to protect elections from hacking.

Bug in Apple’s iOS and OSX AirDrop could allow malware to be installed silently

A vulnerability in Apple’s AirDrop feature has been discovered by Australian security researcher Mark Dowd. AirDrop is an “over-the-air” file sharing service that uses Bluetooth and WiFi, and is built into iOS and Mac OS X products.

10.6 million MGM Resorts guests had personal info exposed in breach

The personal info of more than 10.6 million guests who stayed at MGM Resorts was exposed in a data breach and posted on a hacking forum.

FaceApp goes viral and raises privacy worries: What you need to know

If you download FaceApp, you can “age” your face — but possibly give up your privacy. Learn more.

Four tax scams to watch out for this tax season

Tax season is a ripe time for phishing and spreading malware; without fail, tax-related online scams remain a most popular type of phishing scam each and every year. Through our threat intelligence network, we have identified four types of tax scams that individuals and businesses should be wary of as they’re preparing to file their taxes in 2016.

MyHeritage data breach exposes info of more than 92 million users

MyHeritage DNA testing and family tree website investigating email and password breach, resetting all user passwords.

Video conferencing risks when working at home: 16 ways to avoid them

Working from home may mean relying on video-conferencing to do your job. But your connection may not be private or secure.

10 cyber security facts and statistics for 2018

Data breaches, ransomware attacks, cryptojacking, threats to your connected devices all contribute to new rounds of cyber security facts, figures, and statistics. Do you find it hard to keep up? Let’s cherry-pick 10 cyber safety facts to help give you the big picture.

How to protect your online privacy with a VPN

Did you know that your ISP can see what you do while you’re online? From making purchases to looking up medical conditions, your actions create a digital trail of data that can paint a very detailed picture of you.

New report says Zynga breach in September affected 172 million accounts

A password breach of Zynga Inc. was reported in 2019 affecting approximately 200 million users. Learn what to do if your information was exposed.

What to look for when buying antivirus software

Selecting the right antivirus software for your devices is one of the most important things you can do for your digital safety. Know what to look for before you choose an antivirus.

How to safely and securely use USB memory sticks

You may have noticed growing reports in the media about the dangers of using USB memory sticks. A malicious USB device can install malware such as backdoor Trojans, information stealers and much more.

What is smishing?

Smishing is a form of phishing that involves a text message or phone number. It's becoming an emerging and growing threat in the world of online security. Read on to find out what it is and how you can protect yourself against it.

How Do Cybercriminals Get Caught?

Cybercriminals use sophisticated tactics to commit crimes. It takes a village to catch a cybercriminal since the method of how they commit these crimes is so complicated. Law enforcement usually has to coordinate with government agencies, international partners, and private corporations.

Is it safe to download free ebooks online?

As more and more people lean towards reading in a digital format, here are a few things to keep in mind when reading ebooks. Never download pirated ebooks and always buy books and digital content from legitimate retailers. Some ebooks may contain malicious software that can install malware, spyware, and viruses in your computer.

What you need to do about the WPA2 Wi-Fi network vulnerability

Until your Wi-Fi enabled devices have a security patch for the KRACK vulnerability here are some steps to take to help secure your devices.

How a Gmail password stealing scam works

Sophisticated cybercriminals have devised a way to steal email credentials that bypasses two-factor authentication security and doesnt rely on otherwise easy-to-spot phishing methods. Heres what you...