Hacking and phishing have been around for some time now and as tech users, we have grown more aware of what those scams look like- think weirdly worded texts prompting you to click on a link. Now, the development of zero-click hackers in the cyber security industry, hackers don’t need users to do anything.
What are Zero-Click Hacks?
Just as the name suggests, they are attacks on a device that require no action from a user. Traditionally, cyber-attacks on personal users are laid out by tricking a user into clicking on a URL or opening an attachment which then embeds malware onto the user’s device over a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth, LTE, or Wi-Fi. With a zero-click hack, hackers bypass all actions to trigger the breach by exploiting a flaw in a device’s software.
Once the malware has been installed onto the device, it is then able to essentially do anything on your phone such as track your calls, read your texts and emails, access your calendars, browse your internet activity, and home in on your exact location. The malware is tricky to find as well as it has self-destruct capabilities, removing all traces of the hackers.
A Real World Example
Just last week, tech giant Apple advised all of its users to update their devices after researchers warned that a spyware company out of Israel, NSO Group, had created a malware that can take control over any Apple device- computer, watch, tablet, or phone.
With this attack, the software gains control just by sending an iMessage, then hacks through via a flaw in how Apple processes its images. Like other zero-click attacks, users don’t need to click a link or download an attachment, the malware is downloaded instantly.
How To Protect Yourself
Zero-click attacks are hard to detect as it is linked directly to the OS. To stay safe, users must ensure that the software and apps in the device are updated, and that any app in use is directly installed from Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store. Users must also avoid clicking links in email, text or message that does not look reputable.
Updating to the latest version of iOS or Mac OS will keep users from being newly infected with this exploit.
Here at Extract, security is always the highest priority because we offer a software that automates the process of shielding sensitive data from the public. If you’re interested in learning more about what we do, please reach out today.
Sources:
https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/13/tech/apple-iphone-spyware-vulnerability-fix/index.html
About the Author: Taylor Genter
Taylor is a Marketing Manager at Extract with experience in data analytics, graphic design, and both digital and social media marketing. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing at the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater. Taylor enjoys analyzing people’s behaviors and attitudes to find out what motivates them, and then curating better ways to communicate with them.