Many online games operate on a ‘free-to-play’ model, promising an engaging experience with no upfront cost. However, as children progress in these games, they are often tempted to make in-app purchases to unlock extra benefits and progress faster. These transactions often involve virtual currencies like gems or stars, which must be purchased with real money. This can lead young players to lose track of the financial implications of their gaming.

“In-app purchases are designed to be seamless, making it difficult for children, and sometimes even adults, to resist spending. The excitement of the game, coupled with enticing offers and virtual rewards, can make it easy to overlook the financial consequences,” said van Vlaanderen. “More importantly, these purchases also provide a potential entry point for cybercriminals to exploit personal information.”

Consumer spending on app stores is expected to reach USD$200 billion (approx. UGX735.5 trillion) by 2025 with in-app purchases forming a significant portion of that revenue.

With more young people gaming during school holidays, parents should be aware that cybercriminals may also use online gaming as a platform to access data, which can compromise both the child’s and parents’ personal information. “Whatever screen limits you decide on, kids should not be left unsupervised online, especially during the long year-end holiday period when scammers and criminals are well aware that youngsters are online and prone to boredom,” advises van Vlaanderen.

How cybercriminals use in-app purchases for identity theft

• Phishing and social engineering

Cybercriminals often create fake in-app offers that appear enticing to users. When clicked, these offers can redirect users to fraudulent websites where personal details, including payment information, are collected. This data is then used for identity theft.

• Malicious apps and updates

Fraudulent apps masquerading as legitimate games may collect personal information through hidden malware. “These malicious apps often come with fake reviews and ratings to make them appear credible,” notes van Vlaanderen. “Parents should exercise caution when downloading new games, ensuring that apps are from reputable developers.”

• Exploiting in-app payment systems

During in-app purchases, users are often prompted to enter payment information. If these payment systems are not adequately secured, cybercriminals can intercept the details which are later used for fraudulent purchases elsewhere.

Also read:

• • Your digital hygiene: Are you as clean as you think?
  • OP-ED: Building a robust cybersecurity readiness for Africa’s digital future
  • Strategic cybersecurity paradigms: Technological insights for Finnish online gaming participants

Key strategies to creating a safer digital experience

• Control purchase options

Parents can control in-app purchases by disabling them through device settings. For example:

• • On iOS devices, navigate to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions to block in-app purchases.
  • On Android devices, use the “Purchase Approvals” feature in Google Play to manage and approve transactions.
• Monitor subscriptions regularly

Keeping track of subscriptions helps parents spot any unexpected or unauthorized charges.

• Utilise comprehensive security solutions

Security tools like the ESET Parental Control App allow parents to manage in-app purchases, block inappropriate content, and protect children from threats on their devices. The ESET Home Security Ultimate solution also helps secure digital activities by removing metadata from shared images, reducing the risk of personal data being exposed.

Parents should first contact Apple or Google to request a refund if a child makes an unauthorized purchase. Both platforms offer dedicated support for reversing such transactions. Sometimes, the app developer may also need to be contacted to assist with the process. “Explaining that the purchase was made by a child without permission can improve the chances of a refund,” van Vlaanderen adds.

While there are risks associated with in-app purchases, many apps offer great benefits for kids. When used responsibly, digital devices and games can be educational, inspiring, fun, and safer for young people.

The post In-App Purchases Are Compromising Children’s Online Safety and Privacy appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Merchant onboarding is getting into business relations with secure payment processors or payment service providers (PSPS). This is because there is always a risk of fraud whenever financial services are utilized. Colonies must verify merchants’ details and documents for a secure and streamlined payment processing system. Secure payment method is the primary need of this era to map payment breaches, fraud, and terrorist funding. Companies that do not undergo the merchant onboarding process are vulnerable to criminal activities.

Payment service providers (PSPs) obtain relevant information from buyers to thoroughly assess and manage risk. Maintaining a balance between speed and carefulness is necessary, which can be challenging due to criminal activities. Therefore, there is a need for significant measures to manage merchants’ risk. Without significant measures, businesses may be categorized as high-risk.

Need for enhanced security measures

In merchant onboarding, payment companies set up businesses for streamlined payment systems for secure remote onboarding. Without a secure onboarding process, companies cannot process secure transactions and may undergo breaches and fraud attacks. A poor onboarding process may result in delayed and failed transactions, leading to increased financial losses for organizations. Nowadays, criminals are using technological measures to generate fake IDs and other documents t to bypass securities. It results in various complications for corporations. There is a need for secure processes for onboarding and payment transfers. Hence, merchant onboarding is necessary compliance to maintain streamlined working within the organizations.

Merchant onboarding significantly impacts businesses by influencing customer acquisition, revenue generation, and operational efficiency. A streamlined process accelerates merchant activation, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. A lengthy or complex onboarding can hinder potential merchants, leading to lost revenue and a negative business reputation. Furthermore, effective onboarding mitigates risks like fraud and chargebacks, safeguarding the financial health of a business.

See also: E-IDV: Transforming fintech security in today’s digital age

The process of merchant onboarding

In the very initial step of the merchant onboarding process, relevant corporations such as PSPs collect essential documents from merchants to obtain the required information. It mainly includes all the important details about merchants, such as physical location and IDs of authorities. Automated checks of artificial intelligence verify all the details and identify risk potential for enhanced security and streamlined working of corporations. A quick review of this data saves time and enables financial institutes to ensure the legitimacy of the application.

After risk identification through a thorough checking process, due diligence comes into contact. This step ensures accurate management of all the identified risks. Due diligence processes ensure the secure working of corporations, verify all the details for irks elimination, and manage red flags according to a simplified and enhanced due diligence process.

Payment service providers verify the merchant’s ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) during merchant onboarding. Identification of the UBO is crucial for the PSP to comply with the global AML/CFT regulations. Unveiling the complete ownership of the company’s structure and cross-screening it against the legal databases confirms the legitimacy of the business.

After completing expanded due diligence on merchants, PSP conducts risk evaluations based on the results. It helps decision-makers make informed decisions by tracking their risk levels. Payment service providers can make judgments based on risk levels that range from extremely low to very high. Risk assessment helps them determine which measures to take before onboarding a specific merchant.

Also read:

• • Future of digital payments and fintech innovations
  • How to avoid double charging during online payments
  • The role of mobile payments in financial inclusion: Uganda’s path to economic empowerment

In the final step, PSPs monitor how the merchants operate, depending on the level of their risk. In a case where the merchant risk is high, payment service providers analyze the backside of the business to confirm it is legal and not financially exploiting the system. Merchant onboarding also includes verifying companies against adverse media to ensure that merchants have been highlighted in the past for any scams.

Merchant onboarding is a critical step in engaging new merchants into payment platforms and financial services, guaranteeing compliance and mitigating risks. Businesses can simplify the onboarding process, decrease expenses, and improve accuracy by implementing sophisticated technology and best practices like automation, clear communication, and continuous monitoring. This not only allows merchants to start operations quickly, but it also increases their pleasure and success. Keeping up with regulatory changes and using scalable solutions will help organizations stay competitive and provide better service to their customers.

The post Merchant Onboarding: A Necessity for Secure Funds Transfer appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

What is data protection?

Data security can be defined as the general practice of safeguarding information against espionage, theft, disclosure, and obliteration. It embraces a wide spectrum of measures as straightforward as the application of specific technical countermeasures and as complex as the establishment of sound policies and procedures. This will help foster continuity of business, help organizations retain their customer base, and avoid embarrassing data leakage or failure to meet regulations.

By restricting data access control and data encryption to carrying out periodical audits and administrative compliance, Privacy Engine allows a business to implement successful strategies and fulfill its goals associated with data safety.

Key principles of data protection

Understanding these principles can help organizations shape policies and procedures that align with regulatory requirements:

1. Lawfulness, fairness, and transparency:

Data needs to be processed lawfully, fairly and in a transparent way within the organization. This entails the ability to reveal why data is gathered, how it is going to be processed and the abilities of an individual in relation to their data.

2. Purpose limitation

Personal data should only be processed for the purposes for which the data subject has voluntarily given his consent or which has been communicated to him, specifying the exact scope of the processing operation. In the same sense, organizations have to restrict the use of data within the stated or intended aim and must not process data for any other purpose.

3. Data minimization

Any data should only be gathered and processed to the extent necessary to realize the intended goal of an organization. It can reduce substantially the frequency of leakage and of unauthorized access to sensitive information.

4. Accuracy

There is a legal requirement to ensure that data is accurate, supply chain data must be current and retained for only a short duration. The goal of every data check-sheets includes a series of standard data audits and validation.

5. Storage limitation

An important guideline that has to be followed especially when using large amounts of data is that such data must be kept for only as long as is necessary. One of the problems associated with large amounts of data is that there is a high potential for hacking.

6. Integrity and confidentiality

Companies need to ensure that their data is guarded from input, processing, output, and storage by unauthorized personnel. This includes encryption, use of access controls, and transfer of data properly.

Importance of data protection for organizations

The companies that pay special attention to the protection of the data can also gain in terms of efficiency of operations and overall competitive advantage within the market. The following are good reasons why data protection is important for organizations:

• Enhanced customer trust and loyalty

This poses a great risk to most firms and corporations as amassing data breaches and violating the privacy of the customers are likely to cause the customers to shift loyalty to new business entities. Thus, the focus on data protection is important to establish and strengthen the relationships with the customers.

• Regulatory compliance

Violate data protection laws and regulations and you are exposing yourself to massive fines, legal consequences and reputational losses. Such impacts from organizations are prevented from influencing organizations by enforcing acceptable measures of data protection.

• Mitigation of security risks

On the other hand, data protection restricts the business from encountering such events as data leakage and intrusion. Proper protection of information can lessen the above events or prevent the potential effects thereof.

Data protection best practices

These practices encompass various aspects of data management, from employee training to advanced technological safeguards:

• Conduct regular data audits

Data audits are carried out to check weaknesses and compliance and to review the success of data controls.

• Implement data encryption

One of the main security checks to secure data in practice is encryption. When encryption involves taking data from one location and sending it to another point of transmission, encryption prevents anyone from glimpsing a bit of the data as it passes by.

• Control data access

Accurate control of access to data minimizes or reduces cases of privacy infringement. This involves the use of good authentication methods, using role based and necessity based access controls as well as a robust monitoring system to alert when there is strange access being made.

• Train employees on data privacy and security

Inadequate input from personnel is one of the biggest causes of data leakage and other security breaches. If people are trained in how to handle in terms of data privacy and security then such risks in mitigated.

• Establish data retention policies

Data retention policy sanctions how long data should be retained and when it has to be destroyed. If Organizations follow these policies, the organization will be safe from leakage of data and unauthorized access and also from legal action.

• Use Privacy-Enhancing Technologies (PETs)

Privacy policies like data obscuring, data elimination, and data substitution enable organizations to ensure that specific information is only used in specific ways without reducing the usefulness of the data.

• Regularly update software and security measures

It is truly unfortunate that many organizations still recognize the need to act on outdated software as well as security measures to protect their databases from breaches and practices of cybercriminals. It is sufficient to say that software and security should be updated frequently to increase the strength of data protection.

Benefits of investing in data protection solutions

These solutions help streamline compliance, enhance data security, and optimize data management, ultimately contributing to the success and resilience of the organization:

1. Improved operational efficiency

There are always potential ways how to make processes related to data protection run without needing lots of manual intervention and time. This makes it possible for organizations to worry less on areas of social responsibility and more on their main major goals and objectives.

2. Cost savings

To avoid this unfavorable outcomes as well as avoid the tangible costs of data breaches, fines, and legal consequences, data protection has to happen before time. They can thus minimize such risks and impacts on overall costs if with right protective measures are taken up.

3. Better decision-making with quality data

Data protection means that data is accurate, comprehensive, and relevant to help the organization make good decisions. The quality of information is critical for its application in decision-making and ensuring business performance.

4. Enhanced customer relationships

Through proper protection of data and ensuring customer loyalty, many organizations will get to improve their rapport with customers and thus improve on their competitiveness.

In conclusion, all organizations use data protection as one of the vital aspects of performing their business activities. It means that by realising the key types, using the optimization and following the minor details, the organizations will be able to ensure the data’s protection, gain customers’ trust and become compliant with the regulations.

The post Building a Strong Data Protection Framework: Best Practices, Regulations, and Benefits for Businesses appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

We’ll explore the most critical security solutions within Microsoft 365 that can help shield your organization from evolving threats.

Core security challenges in Microsoft 365

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand the common threats businesses face when using Microsoft 365. These threats include:

• Phishing attacks: Cybercriminals often target Microsoft 365 users with phishing emails to steal login credentials.
• Ransomware: Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities to inject ransomware into your environment, leading to data loss or downtime.
• Insider threats: Employees, whether intentionally or accidentally, can expose sensitive data by sharing it with unauthorized individuals.

Without a well-structured security framework, organizations may leave critical gaps in their defenses, making them vulnerable to these types of attacks. Fortunately, Microsoft 365 offers a range of built-in solutions designed to address these security challenges.

Essential Microsoft 365 Security solutions

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

One of the easiest ways to enhance security in Microsoft 365 is to enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). With MFA, users must provide at least two forms of authentication—such as a password and a one-time code from an authenticator app—before they can access their account. This greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access from stolen or compromised credentials.

How to implement MFA:

• Ensure MFA is mandatory for all admin and privileged accounts.
• Encourage users to use an authenticator app instead of SMS for greater security.

See also: Password-less Authentication: The Future of Secure Access

2. Identity and Access Management with Azure AD

Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) is Microsoft’s cloud-based identity and access management service. It helps organizations manage identities, enforce security policies, and control who can access certain resources. By leveraging Azure AD, you can ensure that users have the right level of access and that malicious actors are kept out.

Key Azure AD features for security:

• Conditional Access: Define security rules based on factors like user location, device compliance, or the risk level of sign-ins.
• Identity Protection: Automatically detect and remediate compromised identities through machine learning.

3. Advanced Threat Protection (ATP)

Microsoft 365’s Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) is designed to protect against sophisticated threats like phishing, malware, and zero-day vulnerabilities. ATP uses real-time threat intelligence and advanced analytics to detect and block malicious activity before it can harm your organization.

Key ATP features:

• Safe Links: Protects users from malicious URLs in emails by scanning links in real time.
• Safe Attachments: Prevents malicious files from entering your organization by analyzing and quarantining suspicious attachments.

4. Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is a key feature for organizations that handle sensitive information such as financial records, personally identifiable information (PII), and intellectual property. DLP policies monitor data flows and prevent accidental or intentional sharing of sensitive information with unauthorized recipients.

Best practices for DLP:

• Set up DLP policies for email, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Teams to detect and block the sharing of confidential data.
• Customize policies to alert administrators or automatically block content that violates security rules.

4. Information Protection with Azure Information Protection (AIP)

Azure Information Protection (AIP) helps you classify, label, and protect data based on its sensitivity level. By tagging documents and emails with specific labels (such as “Confidential” or “Internal Use Only”), you can ensure that sensitive data is encrypted and handled appropriately.

Tips for using AIP:

• Define classification labels that align with your organization’s security policies.
• Automate data encryption for documents labeled as highly confidential.
• Combine AIP with DLP to ensure comprehensive data protection.

5. Microsoft Defender for Office 365

Microsoft Defender for Office 365 offers an additional layer of protection against threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing. With built-in AI and automation capabilities, it can detect and respond to suspicious activities before they escalate into major incidents.

Key features of Defender for Office 365:

• Automated investigations: Quickly identify and mitigate potential threats using AI-powered analysis.
• Threat intelligence: Stay informed about the latest attack vectors and trends with real-time threat data.

6. Conditional Access Policies

Conditional access policies allow you to control access to Microsoft 365 resources based on specific conditions, such as device type, user location, or risk level. This dynamic approach ensures that users accessing your environment are doing so from trusted devices and locations.

Best practices for conditional access:

• Block access from risky or unfamiliar locations.
• Enforce MFA for high-risk sign-ins.
• Restrict access to corporate data on non-compliant or jailbroken devices.

7. Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Application Management

With the growing trend of remote work and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, securing mobile access to Microsoft 365 is essential. Microsoft’s Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions enable organizations to control access to corporate data on personal devices.

How to implement MDM:

• Enforce encryption on all devices that access company data.
• Set policies to remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices.
• Monitor device compliance and block access to devices that don’t meet security standards.

8. Microsoft 365 Security and Compliance Center

The Microsoft 365 Security and Compliance Center is a centralized hub for managing security policies, monitoring threats, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. It provides tools to help administrators detect and respond to security incidents in real time.

Key features of the Security and Compliance Center:

• Threat monitoring: Use built-in dashboards to monitor security incidents and respond to alerts.
• Compliance tools: Ensure regulatory compliance with features like audit logs, retention policies, and data governance settings.

See also: OP-ED: Microsoft Azure Stack, a Game Changer for Ugandan Businesses and Enterprises

Best practices for maximizing Microsoft 365 Security

• Regular Security Audits and Monitoring

Conducting regular security audits is critical for identifying potential vulnerabilities in your Microsoft 365 environment. Audit logs allow administrators to track user activity, changes to security configurations, and other key events that may signal a security breach.

Best practices:

• • Set up automated alerts for suspicious activities, such as unusual login locations or changes to admin accounts.
  • Regularly review audit logs to stay ahead of potential threats.
• Employee Security Awareness Training

Even with advanced security solutions in place, employees can still be the weakest link if they aren’t educated about cybersecurity best practices. Regular training helps ensure that employees know how to recognize phishing attempts, avoid sharing sensitive information, and follow security policies.

Key training topics:

• • How to identify phishing emails.
  • The importance of using strong passwords and enabling MFA.
  • Avoiding the use of public Wi-Fi for accessing corporate accounts.

Securing your Microsoft 365 environment requires a multi-layered approach that incorporates the latest security solutions and best practices. By implementing solutions, you can effectively shield your organization from a wide range of cyber threats. Regularly auditing your security configurations and training employees on security awareness will further bolster your defenses.

With the right strategies in place, your organization can enjoy the benefits of Microsoft 365 while ensuring that sensitive data and systems are fully protected.

See also: OP-ED: Building a Robust Cybersecurity Readiness For Africa’s Digital Future

The post Microsoft 365 Security Solutions: How to Shield Your Organization appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Thus, safeguarding sensitive information—including identity details and banking data—has become indispensable in the construction of a secure and satisfying gaming undertaking. In this context, practical cybersecurity practices heighten the confidence of participants while simultaneously elevating the overall integrity and reliability of the online gaming backdrop. Therefore, a thorough acquaintance with strategic cybersecurity paradigms is critical for anyone engaged in online gaming, in Finland and internationally.

Use a reliable antivirus program

A rudimentary aspect of any cybersecurity approach involves employing a steadfast antivirus program; players digitally entering Finnish nettikasinot (online casinos) should prioritize installing current antivirus software to guard against malware and phishing attacks prevalent on casino platforms. Cybercriminals commonly target online gaming platforms, exploiting susceptibilities to acquire unauthorized access to personal information. Most contemporary antivirus solutions are built on advanced technologies—including real-time scanning and behavior-based detection—to determine and neutralize potential threats before they can inflict damage. These programs are designed to identify and block known threats while scanning for unusual conduct indicating an emerging risk.

Regular updates also perform a critical function as they affirm antivirus programs maintain effectiveness against the latest security challenges. With the expedited pace at which new malware is assembled, a powerful antivirus solution must continuously adapt to fight these threats efficaciously. Thus, maintaining a secure system permits players to engross themselves in gaming ventures without the persistent apprehension of cyber hazards. Furthermore, sweeping antivirus software packages frequently include additional features, such as firewalls and VPN services, which additionally improve online security. Ultimately, investing in a holistic security solution greatly contributes to fortifying the overall gaming domain against potential cyber perils.

See also: Top things that you need to know before buying antivirus

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) is a critical security augmentation for online accounts, particularly those linked to Finnish online casinos. This strategy demands users supply a second form of verification in addition to their traditional password, a feature that enormously enhances account security. Here, the additional aspect of security mitigates the risks associated with password theft and unauthorized access. With many participants typically using similar passwords across numerous platforms, the implementation of 2FA is critical for supplementing security.

Installing 2FA is a straightforward process, usually linking a mobile device to the online casino account. Upon logging in, a verification code is transmitted to the registered device, guaranteeing access remains restricted to authorized users. Myriad methods exist for receiving these codes, including SMS, email, or dedicated authentication apps. Each of these options furnishes distinct classes of convenience and security aligning with their subjective preferences. This precise and effective measure radically diminishes the probability of account compromise, thus instilling trust in partakers as they engage in online gaming activities.

Alongside conventional 2FA methods, biometric authentication technology is accumulating favor in efforts to augment security in online accounts; instruments such as fingerprint recognition or facial recognition add another aspect of protection, making unauthorized access even more formidable. The integration of biometric security measures epitomizes a stronger commitment to utilizing innovative technology to assemble safer online settings, further firming the role of 2FA in improving cybersecurity.

See also: Editor’s pick: from today start using two-factor authentication

Use a VPN for secure browsing

1.6 billion people use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in 2024. They have become indispensable tools for those desiring secure browsing settings, particularly in the context of online gaming. VPNs deliver vital protection for user identity and encrypt data, confirming sensitive information remains private. In an era where personal data can be easily intercepted, VPNs are crucial for safeguarding online privacy.

The capability to mask the IP address of users provides an auxiliary layer of anonymity, rendering it more challenging for cybercriminals to track online activities. This characteristic of VPNs is particularly marked for participants utilizing multiple online gaming platforms. Furthermore, widely respected VPN services usually incorporate elevated grades of encryption, defending data against possible eavesdropping. Popular VPN services in Finland—such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN—represent steadfast choices for users bolstering their online security. Many of these services offer user-friendly interfaces and rapid setup processes, rendering them obtainable to a broader spectrum of users, including those less technologically oriented.

Overall, utilizing a VPN augments protection and permits partakers to bypass geographical restrictions, thus gifting access to a more comprehensive scope of online gaming alternatives. Additionally, certain online casinos often deliver unique bonuses or promotions to those connecting via VPN, supplying additional motivation to prioritize online security. Ultimately, the inclusion of VPN technology in the online gaming domain contributes immensely to safer conditions, facilitating players to concentrate on gaming activities without compromising security.

See also: 6 considerations to help you select the right VPN

Therefore, the importance of implementing strategic cybersecurity efforts for participants in Finnish online gaming cannot be overstated; in this context, adopting reliable antivirus programs, enabling two-factor authentication, and utilizing VPNs for secure browsing are rudimentary practices to greatly enhance online security. These basic steps construct a rugged defense against the myriad of cyber threats permeating the online gaming arena, where the rise in digital threats necessitates a proactive approach emphasizing the requirement for continuous education on cybersecurity best practices.

As the digital domain continues to extend, encouraging a culture of security cognition among players becomes increasingly necessary; motivating participants to remain alert and well-advised about conceivable threats will assist in the mitigation of risks and improve the overarching online gaming venture. The enactment of these strategies assembles a safer online casino experience, allowing participants to focus on entertainment while minimizing the inherent risks. Ultimately, prioritizing cybersecurity safeguards individual users and the integrity and sustainability of the online gaming industry overall during our challenging times.

The post Strategic Cybersecurity Paradigms: Technological Insights for Finnish Online Gaming Participants appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Not only is Africa suffering from thousands of cyberattacks, but it is also the region with the highest weekly average on earth. The global average is 1,636 attacks per week.

Cyberattacks are now part and parcel of the business landscape —and Africa is a major target. Given the sheer scale of the problem, cybersecurity is a fundamental requirement for any business, NGO, or government entity trying to operate on the continent.

Cyber vulnerabilities

What makes Africa particularly vulnerable is the continent’s lack of infrastructure and resources due to budget limitations; a lack of awareness of the truly critical nature of the problem; legislative and policy lethargy; and a continuing shortage of trained cybersecurity professionals.

Another vulnerability is the continent’s youthful population. While an enormous asset, having a young population also comes with risks.  According to the United Nations, 70% of Africa’s population is under 30, and that youth component is growing. The youth often lack financial resources and become accustomed to compromising their cybersecurity to access connectivity through sharing devices, connecting to wi-fi in public places, or using unencrypted connections.

Another risk is that the youth-focused education sector has become the industry suffering the most cyberattacks. This is partly due to the rise in online education since the Covid-19 pandemic. Education and research institutions are also often prime targets for cybercriminals, due to the sensitive information they hold and the fact that remote education involves multiple groups of online users.

Also read:

• • Liquid Intelligent Technologies is strengthening cybersecurity for East African businesses
  • OP-ED: Getting a hold of cybersecurity
  • The top 10 digital vulnerabilities and cybersecurity solutions

Content piracy

Young people are also enthusiastic users of entertainment content. This may make them more willing to seek out pirated content, which comes with significant risks —malware, ransomware, fraud, and identity theft, to name just a few. These risks have seen the rise of the Partners Against Piracy initiative, with entertainment group MultiChoice Africa and cybersecurity firm Irdeto —a pan-African coalition to fight content piracy.

This anti-piracy initiative has made significant strides, with Irdeto and other key stakeholders conducting around 155 raids across Africa this year; and 4,351 pirate-content networks having been closed down.

Africa’s Police and court systems are also combating content piracy. Cybercrime legislation has been updated in Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania, and 107 arrests have been made across Africa this year.

Despite the risk of piracy in youth-culture channels, Africa’s youth dividend is a significant advantage as the world embraces connected, digital economies. The GSMA predicts that by 2030, Africa will have 438 million mobile internet users —a cohort of savvy, digital natives, ready to work and do business online.

This rapid digital transformation increases the need for robust cybersecurity in African economies. The threat is real. In 2023, Checkpoint found only seven African countries ranked among the top 50 for cybersecurity readiness.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap

Boosting resilience

Increasing Africa’s resilience against cyber threats will require initiatives on several fronts.

• Awareness and education: It’s critical to build cybersecurity education into school curriculums corporate training programs and public awareness campaigns.
• Investment: Cybersecurity is a sophisticated, specialized area, best managed by experts with relevant, up-to-the-minute skills. Organizations must budget to enlist these experts to build robust cybersecurity frameworks.
• Legislation: Cybersecurity considerations must be integrated into policies to ensure that cyber-resilience is legislated, and cyber criminals are prosecuted and jailed. This requires international, cross-sectoral cooperation.
• Infrastructure protection: Cybersecurity requires information security infrastructure, a massive weakness in Africa. Reports show that 90% of African businesses operate without comprehensive cybersecurity protocols. Inadequate or outdated infrastructure limits their ability to detect, prevent, and respond effectively to cyberattacks.
• Public-private partnerships: The private sector has cybersecurity expertise and agile industry knowledge. Governments have budgets and policy strengths to get things done. A co-ordinated, partnership approach is the ideal way to unlock these respective competencies for everyone’s benefit.

National functions like health, education, social services, and justice depend on digital platforms. Neglecting cybersecurity places the delivery of all these services at risk. On the upside, future careers will increasingly rely on digital skills and platforms. These platforms must be secured if Africa’s people are going to be able to build businesses, campaigns, and other initiatives in the digital space.

See also: OP-ED: Time to empower Gen Z for the burgeoning tech and digital careers

As a continent, we cannot afford to ignore the importance of building cyber-resilience to secure the future of Africa’s people.

Editor’s Note: Frikkie Jonker, a Broadcasting Cybersecurity Anti-Piracy Director at Irdeto, writes the article

The post OP-ED: Building a Robust Cybersecurity Readiness For Africa’s Digital Future appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“Cyber-criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and we are constantly investing in innovative solutions aimed at keeping pace with these ever-evolving threats and assuring customers that their systems are secure,” said Adil El Youssefi, Chief Executive Officer of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Rest of Africa in a press statement. “Our Cyber Security Fusion Centres provide the perfect platform from which to manage these risks for our customers.”

Compliance support is also an essential element of any cyber security strategy, and the new offering enables Liquid to assist businesses in meeting local and international regulatory requirements, with the ability to customize solutions to fit any compliance landscape, and regional data protection laws.

Liquid is uniquely positioned to deliver these solutions across the East African region by leveraging its local infrastructure and cloud expertise. The company’s Azure stacks in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda businesses can remain compliant with local regulations while accessing world-class cloud and security services. Supporting this, its Cyber Security Fusion Centres provide enterprise and SME customers with tailored support across cyber security, cloud, and networks for end-to-end security.

See also: OP-ED: Microsoft Azure Stack, a game changer for Ugandan businesses and enterprises

With these new solutions to the existing portfolio, including DDoS Mitigation, Virtual CISO, and Managed Security Services, Liquid Intelligent Technologies can help its customers manage and safeguard their cyber assets more effectively, while offering proactive threat detection and preventing cyberattacks.

With the rate at which digital transformation is advancing, companies need to upgrade their cybersecurity strategies regularly.

The post Liquid Intelligent Technologies is Strengthening Cybersecurity For East African Businesses appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

I’ve just received an email from a S. African woman who was caught by this.
The fraudulent email came amid a stream of genuine https://t.co/DWEn2V5aWz emails about her UK booking.
She lost >R18K.@bookingcom sent her a warning email but it landed AFTER the scammers’ ones. https://t.co/co0c7Xc4Nl

— Wendy Knowler (@wendyknowler) August 26, 2024

You can’t let your guard down for a moment. The truth is that most cybersecurity breaches these days take the form of phishing-based social engineering. Why break through thick firewalls or try to hack complex passwords when you can simply get someone to hand you the keys to their data and money? Scammers only need to find one cybersecurity gap for your trip to become far more expensive than you’d anticipated.

There are several parties involved from banks to booking agents to online platforms to airlines. Booking flights or accommodations online often requires entering personal information on multiple platforms, each with its own level of security. Each interaction creates a potential entry point for cybercriminals, who can exploit these vulnerabilities to access or steal crucial data. If even one of these platforms is compromised, your travel itinerary, including payment details, could be exposed to significant risk.

It doesn’t get much safer once you’re traveling. Accessing the Internet while on the move —whether to check emails, manage bookings, or handle banking transactions —poses additional threats, especially if you’re using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Cybercriminals can easily intercept data or deploy phishing schemes to steal your credentials.

See also: Techniques hackers employ to exploit public Wi-Fi and compromise your sensitive data

To help travelers protect their personal information, ESET has published a guide on recognizing and avoiding phishing scams outlining essential strategies to prevent phishing attacks.

How to recognize phishing

Phishing messages often mimic legitimate correspondence but can be identified through several telltale signs:

1. Requests for personal information: Reputable organizations rarely ask for sensitive details via email.
2. Poor grammar: Spelling mistakes and awkward phrasing are common in phishing emails.
3. Unexpected contact: Unsolicited emails from banks or service providers should be treated with suspicion.
4. Urgency or irresistible offers: Messages that push for immediate action or offer deals that seem too good to be true are often scams.
5. Suspicious domain names: Be wary of emails from domains that don’t match the organization’s official website.

How to prevent phishing

1. Think before you click: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious messages. These could lead you to malicious websites or infect your device with malware.
2. Stay informed: Keep up with reports on new phishing techniques to avoid falling into the latest traps.
3. Guard your personal details: Always verify the message with the sender or the organization it claims to represent, using contact details you know to be genuine.
4. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your online accounts for any unusual activity, even if you don’t suspect any foul play.
5. Use reliable security solutions: Implementing a trusted anti-phishing solution can add an extra layer of protection.

Also read:

• • Why Microsoft is a hacker’s dream target
  • The top 10 digital vulnerabilities and cybersecurity solutions

In the end, you are your own best multi-factor authenticator. If you have any doubts or even if you don’t but are about to make a sizeable transfer —call or email a known, genuine contact at the organization you’re trading with. Confirm that the details you’re using are legitimate and, whatever you do, do not click on links from unknown contacts.

As travel plans become increasingly digital, the need for cybersecurity grows more urgent. By staying vigilant and adopting safe online practices, travelers can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime and enjoy a safer, stress-free trip.

The post Stay Cybersafe When Planning a Travel — says Cybersecurity Consultant, Lucas Molefe appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

We explore why investing in a premium VPN service is crucial for anyone seeking enhanced online security, privacy, and unrestricted internet access.

Before diving into the advantages of paid VPN services, it’s essential to understand what a VPN is and how it works.

A VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. This tunnel protects your data from prying eyes, including hackers, government agencies, and even your Internet Service Provider (ISP). By masking your IP address, a VPN allows you to browse the internet anonymously, making it significantly harder for third parties to track your online activities.

The advantages of paid VPN services

1. Enhanced security: One of the primary reasons to pay for a VPN service is the enhanced security it provides. Paid VPNs typically offer strong encryption protocols, such as AES-256, which is considered military-grade encryption. This level of security ensures that your data remains confidential and protected from cyber threats.

Additionally, premium VPNs often include features like a Kill Switch, which disconnects your internet connection if the VPN fails, preventing any data leaks.

2. Improved privacy: Paid VPNs prioritize user privacy by implementing strict no-logs policies, meaning they do not store any information about your online activities. This is crucial for users who are concerned about their data being collected and sold to third parties.

Free VPNs, on the other hand, may track your online behavior and even sell your data to advertisers, undermining the very purpose of using a VPN.

3. Bypassing geo-restrictions: Many streaming services impose geographic restrictions on their content. Paid VPNs allow you to bypass these geo-blocks by connecting to servers in different countries.

For instance, if you’re traveling abroad and want to access content available only in your home country, a VPN can help you do so by masking your location. This feature is particularly beneficial for travelers and expatriates who wish to maintain access to their favorite shows and services.

4. Avoiding ISP throttling: ISPs sometimes throttle bandwidth for users who consume large amounts of data, particularly during peak times. By using a VPN, your ISP cannot see how much data you are using, which can help prevent throttling.

This means you can enjoy faster streaming and downloading speeds without interruptions, making your online experience smoother and more enjoyable.

5. Safe public Wi-Fi usage: Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously insecure, making them prime targets for cybercriminals.

Paid VPNs encrypt your data when you connect to public Wi-Fi, protecting you from potential hacking attempts. This is especially important for users who frequently access sensitive information, such as banking details or personal data, while on the go.

6. Access to better connection speeds: While free VPNs often suffer from overcrowding and slow speeds due to their limited server capacity, paid VPNs typically offer a wider range of servers and better bandwidth.

This means you can enjoy faster connection speeds and a more reliable service, which is essential for activities like streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.

7. Comprehensive customer support: When you pay for a VPN service, you often gain access to dedicated customer support. This can be invaluable if you encounter technical issues or have questions about the service. Free VPNs may not offer the same level of support, leaving users to troubleshoot problems on their own.

Additional features;

Many premium VPN services come with a range of additional features designed to enhance your online experience. These can include ad blockers, malware protection, and split tunneling, which allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet.

These features can significantly improve your online safety and browsing experience.

Also read:

• • What is a VPN and do you really need one?
  • How to set up a virtual private network (VPN) on your device
  • What your Internet Service Provider sees once you’re connected to a VPN
  • Top 10 VPNs to choose from

The risks of using free VPNs

While the allure of free VPN services may be tempting, they come with significant risks that can compromise your online safety and privacy.

• Data logging and selling

Many free VPN providers log user data and sell it to third parties, including advertisers. This practice undermines the privacy that users seek when using a VPN. In contrast, reputable paid VPNs adhere to strict no-logs policies, ensuring that your online activities remain confidential.

• Inadequate security measures

Free VPNs often lack the robust security measures found in paid services. They may use outdated encryption protocols or none at all, leaving your data vulnerable to interception. This can expose you to various cyber threats, including identity theft and data breaches.

• Limited bandwidth and speed

Free VPN services frequently impose bandwidth limits and offer slower speeds due to overcrowded servers. This can lead to frustrating experiences, especially when streaming or downloading content. Paid VPNs, on the other hand, provide better performance and reliability.

• Ads and malware

Many free VPN services generate revenue through advertisements, which can lead to intrusive ads while you browse. Worse yet, some free VPNs have been found to contain malware, putting your device and personal information at risk. Paid VPNs typically do not display ads and prioritize user safety.

• Lack of customer support

Free VPN providers often do not offer adequate customer support, leaving users to fend for themselves in case of issues. Paid VPN services usually provide responsive customer support, ensuring that users can resolve any problems quickly and efficiently.

In summary, while free VPNs may seem like an attractive option, they often come with significant drawbacks that can jeopardize your online privacy and security. Paying for a VPN service enhances your protection against cyber threats and provides a range of benefits that improve your overall online experience —from robust security measures and improved privacy to the ability to bypass geo-restrictions and avoid ISP throttling, a premium VPN service is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their online safety.

The post Why You Need a Premium VPN Service appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Since businesses and other organizations are looking for professionals who install and manage these kinds of systems, finding them locally is the key. A search for a solution in access control Manchester is directed towards professionals who can tailor it to the specific security needs to ensure that an access control system fits into a design that best protects the assets and keeps security within the perimeter.

Restricted accessibility

An access control system permits entry to authorized persons to certain areas or information and thus controls entry into a facility. Such controlled access makes sure that unauthorized persons do not get access to highly critical areas, which in turn reduces the chances of theft, sabotage, or any other security breach. The access control system strictly enforces rules on who should enter which part of the facility, ensuring security and protection of valuable assets.

Real-time monitoring

Real-time monitoring and logging of entry and exit activities by an access control system keep track, at all times, of who accesses different areas. This feature allows the security teams to monitor the movements efficiently, decipher unusual or suspicious behavior, and take appropriate action against any potential security threat. These systems enable immediate investigation, while keeping line logs of all events of access, helping improve situational awareness to avoid or respond to security breaches quickly.

Improved authentication

Advanced authentication systems are now in place for access control systems with the use of biometric recognitions from fingerprints and retinas and smart cards that provide much better security than keys or passwords. These state-of-the-art technologies offer higher verifications that will reduce unauthorized access resulting from lost, stolen, or duplicated credentials to almost nil. These systems ensure that only authorized people can get in, using unique identifications that are hard to replicate, hence increasing security and offering better protection against sensitive areas and information.

See also: Briefly understanding the role of biometrics in identity verification

Automatic access management

Access control systems maintain access rights and permissions in an automated manner, where changes can be made at any time. Automation makes it a great deal easier to handle employee access. By automating the processes of assignment and modification of access levels, the system ensures that the entities will get proper access corresponding to their current role or status. This lowers administrative overheads by reducing unauthorized access. In this way, it further helps in keeping security intact with operational efficiency while making adjustments at a quicker pace against organizational changes.

Audit trails

Access control systems maintain detailed records of access events. An audit trail forms these logs, which become very important in the event of security reviews and investigations. These logs track entries and exits and, therefore, allow security teams to study trends, trace movements, and highlight unusual or unauthorized attempts at access. Audit trails, by providing a detailed and accurate record of access events, paint a clear picture of possible security breaches, confirm compliance, and conduct in-depth investigations in the case of suspected behavior. This capability enhances security management through transparency and accountability.

In a nutshell, these access control systems guarantee security using various features that protect against unauthorized intrusion or access and threats. Restricted access to sensitive areas or information, real-time monitoring, enhanced authentication, automated management of access, and even audit trails ensure tight security through an all-rounded approach.

Advanced access control provides organizations with assured entry by authorized persons only, quick response times in case of security incidents, and a secure environment. This integration of systems will not only enhance physical and digital security but also smoothen the management process for a secure operation that can be efficiently run.

The post How Does Access Control System Improve Security? appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.