In 2024, a significant surge in hacking activities targeting social media and email accounts was reported, according to Action Fraud. The increase in cyber-crime complaints compared to the previous year, 2023, was staggering, with reports soaring from 23,000 cases in 2023 to an alarming 35,436 fraud incidents in 2024. This highlights a growing concern over online security and the vulnerability of personal accounts to malicious actors.
A predominant threat observed during this surge was criminals hijacking social media and email accounts. Such attacks typically occur when users fall prey to phishing scams, where they are tricked into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information that gives hackers access to their accounts. The consequences of these breaches can be severe, ranging from unauthorized access to personal information to devastating financial losses, including the draining of bank accounts.
Despite the alarming rise in these cyber-crimes, email service providers are reportedly taking steps to combat this issue. Many companies are enhancing their spam filters with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems designed to detect and block phishing attempts more effectively. However, the responsibility also lies with individual users to remain cautious and skeptical of unsolicited emails or links, particularly those that promise unrealistic returns—such as “doubling or tripling your investments” in cryptocurrency or betting apps. These too-good-to-be-true offers are often a red flag for scams that aim to deceive and steal from unsuspecting individuals.
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter also have a critical role to play in reducing the prevalence of fraud. One of the key areas that need more attention is the widespread promotion of betting schemes or get-rich-quick offers through advertisements. These promotions are often deceptive, misleading users into thinking they are legitimate opportunities, when in fact, they are designed to exploit users’ trust and steal money. It is imperative for these platforms to take a stronger stance in policing such ads, as they are often a breeding ground for fraud.
Another notable cyber threat that has been on the rise is phishing—where cybercriminals create fake websites that closely resemble those of reputable companies. These fraudulent sites are designed to trick users into entering their personal information, which is then harvested for malicious purposes. Once hackers gain access to this sensitive data, they can take control of a user’s device or network, leading to further vulnerabilities and potential data breaches.
To combat phishing, social media giant Meta (Facebook’s parent company) has taken steps to curb these threats, including a proposed ban on advertisements originating from anonymous accounts. While these initiatives are steps in the right direction, critics argue that social media platforms often prioritize revenue over user safety, which means that these platforms may not be doing enough to stop harmful content from being shared. As a result, users must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their personal information.
There are several ways individuals can safeguard themselves from these evolving cyber threats. First, avoiding suspicious links and always verifying the authenticity of messages or offers is essential. Additionally, regularly updating passwords to something more complex—ideally at least 14 characters long, incorporating a mix of numbers, letters, and special characters—can significantly reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access. Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) is another effective measure that provides an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password to gain access to an account.
Moreover, users should stay on top of updates for their devices, including operating system (OS) and firmware updates, which often contain critical patches for security vulnerabilities. Regularly updating these can help shield against many common cyber threats and ensure that your device remains secure.
Ultimately, while companies are working to enhance security measures, the responsibility also falls on users to be more mindful of their online activities. By adopting proactive measures and staying alert to potential threats, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime.
