Recent global news have brought to our attention the hacking group known as Anonymous. They have revealed the shady undertakings being conducted by our leaders, and more nefarious activities.
The notion of hacking is not a new one to many people in Machakos. In movies for example, they are always shown typing away on a keyboard in front of a large monitor, moving millions from one account to the next, and breaking firewalls with simple button taps, but did you know that it is possible for normal people to hack into your smartphone as well?
Once they have access they can steal your identity and passwords, hacking into your social media accounts and bank and M-Pesa accounts.
A scary idea and one that makes many people grip their phones tighter. Simple procedures can however deter such troublemakers and information security officer Joseph Mathenge at Airtel explains how.
Firstly never leave your phone with a stranger. People swoon over the latest gadget and people who ask to see your latest acquisition may not always have your best interests at heart.
They may install spy software into it and hack you later. If you have to give your phone to someone make sure you use security software to lock it.
Do not install apps from unknown sources. App stores like the Google Play Store or the Apple Store always run security checks on their apps and it is always safer to install apps from known stores like these.
Also avoid using your phone to access risky and unknown websites. Such websites may contain scripts which automatically install malware or spyware on your phone.
When in public places always remember to switch off your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Hackers have long known how to access your phone through such points and a quick internet search of 'Bluetooth Hack' will show you just how vulnerable you are.
The most basic defense is always to remember to switch off your phone if you are not using it and let your voicemail handle your calls. This way you won't become a magnet for hackers.