Home / Technology / Beyond Devices: People Are the New Cybercrime Target
Beyond Devices: People Are the New Cybercrime Target
16 May
Summary
- Cybercriminals increasingly target people over devices for data theft.
- A survey shows 91% of Americans fear cybersecurity scams.
- Scam calls are now the primary entry point for identity theft.
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting individuals rather than just devices for personal data theft. A recent survey indicates a significant shift in attack methods, with a strong focus on social engineering tactics. Attackers are now more likely to use scam calls and phishing messages that mimic legitimate companies to steal passwords and personal information.
Survey results reveal that 91% of Americans express concern about cybersecurity scams. However, many respondents are more worried about broader threats like identity theft than about the frequent scam calls they encounter. Nearly half of those surveyed report experiencing scam calls daily, while a notable percentage also deals with identity theft and fraud personally.
Experts emphasize that the critical moment of attack often occurs when individuals feel pressured or rushed into trusting a caller or message. This psychological manipulation can lead to stolen identities within a few simple steps. Recognizing that urgent messages and calls are suspicious is crucial for defense. Utilizing features like iOS call screening can help mitigate the risk of scam calls.
