Cyber Attacks

Cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeted and widespread. They can happen without warning and may go undetected until significant disruption has occurred.

What do cyber-attacks look like?

Some cyber-attacks may seem obvious such as a suspicious email, but others can be hard to detect. Some of the most common ways criminals try to steal your information include:

• Hacking: cyber criminals gain access to your device or an organization's information technology systems to steal your information
• Malware: viruses, spyware or adware are placed on your device to steal your information
• Pharming: cyber criminals redirect an organization's legitimate website to a similar-looking website that captures the information you enter
• Phishing: fake emails, text messages and websites asking for your information, such as your social insurance number (SIN)
• Spam: mass distribution of unwanted messages to you or from you to your contact list
• Wi-Fi Eavesdropping: captures your online activity over an unsecure Wi-Fi network

How to prepare for Cyber Attacks

Practicing regular reviews of your online profile can reduce your exposure to cyber-attacks.

Reduce your risk by 80%:

• Use strong passwords
• Change passwords regularly for each of your devices and services
• Update software to the latest version

Other things you can do:

• Start a discussion with your financial service providers so you understand how your information is kept safe
• Avoid using public wifi when dealing with financial service providers and opt for an encrypted or secure connection
• Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings when you are not using them
• If you receive an email from a financial service provider asking for information, give them a call (on a number not given in the email) to confirm it is legitimate and when in doubt, delete it
• Use safe payment options, such as credit cards, when making purchases online
• Avoid using money transfers as this is not a common practice in the financial services industry

Additional Resources

• Protect yourself against cyber-attacks – Financial Services Commission of Ontario
• Get Cyber Safe – Government of Canada