In our world of growing interconnectivity and digital reliance, where smartphones are our constant companions and the internet serves as our primary channel for information and communication, the need for technology to be dependable and reliable has never been more vital. COREnext is a European-funded project to explore and enhance trustworthiness in the context of 5G and 6G technologies. But why is this so important? Let’s delve into some basic vulnerabilities in today’s systems and society, which COREnext aims to address.
We’ve heard of hacking, phishing, and spoofing, but what do all these, and others, mean? These issues are like dark clouds looming over our digital lives, threatening to disrupt the sunny days of convenience and connectivity. When vulnerabilities are exploited, the consequences can be far-reaching.
Hacking
Imagine someone picking the lock to your front door, but instead of your home, they’re trying to access your personal data. That’s what hacking is: a digital break-in. These cybercriminals exploit weaknesses in software or systems to gain unauthorized access. They can steal sensitive information, disrupt services, or even hold your data hostage for a ransom.
Phishing
Phishing is similar to someone pretending to be your trusted friend or family member only to trick you into revealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card details. These ambiguous emails or messages often appear genuine, making it challenging to distinguish them from the real deal.
Spoofing
Imagine receiving a phone call from your best friend, only to find out later it was an imposter. Spoofing means someone hides behind a stolen or made-up identity in communication, which can lead to confusion, deception, or even financial loss.
E-theft
Electronic theft happens when someone steals things from the internet, like personal information, money, or identity. It’s like a digital pickpocket. To protect yourself, be careful with your passwords, and don’t share them with anyone. Also, watch out for suspicious emails or websites, and always keep your computer and devices updated with the latest security updates. E-theft is a sneaky crime, but simple steps can keep your online world safe.
Data leakage
Data leakage occurs when valuable information, such as your personal data or confidential details, ends up in the wrong hands, either by accident or on purpose. Think of it like a leak in a container holding your information. To safeguard against data leakage, exercise caution when sharing sensitive data online, and always use secure websites and apps. Additionally, be selective about who you trust with your private information. Just as you take care of your personal belongings, it’s crucial to protect your data from falling into the wrong hands.
Malware
Malware is harmful software that can attack your computer, steal your data, and cause problems. It comes in various forms like viruses, ransomware, and spyware. To protect yourself, keep your software updated, use good antivirus software, be careful when clicking on unfamiliar links, and regularly back up your data. Learning about cybersecurity is also important to stay safe online.
DDoS – Distributed Denial-of-Services
Sounds complicated? A DDoS attack, normally targeting companies, floods a website or network with so much traffic that it collapses causing financial and reputational damage. Be ready to scale up your network during an attack and consider working with DDoS protection services to detect and mitigate threats quickly.
Cyber Extortion
Cyber extortion happens when bad people use the internet to threaten or pressure others into doing something they don’t want. It’s like a digital bully who tries to scare you into giving them money or sensitive information. To stay safe from cyber extortion, be cautious about sharing personal information online, and don’t respond to threats or demands from strangers on the internet. If you ever feel threatened or pressured online, you must talk to a trusted adult or report it to the authorities. Remember, online safety is just as important as safety in the real world.
So why is COREnext important?
COREnext understands that trust and security are the base of our digital society. Our mission is to fortify the foundations of technology by addressing existing vulnerabilities, to prevent the attacks mentioned above. Through innovative research and development, they aim to create secure, resilient, and trustworthy systems for the 5G and 6G era. COREnext aims to ensure that our digital future remains bright and secure in a world of ever-evolving digital threats.
