Name: Everyday cybercrime -- and what you can do about it
Uploaded: 2013-09-16T15:17:38Z
Duration: 17 min 12 s
Description: How do you pick up a malicious online virus, the kind of malware that snoops on your data and taps your bank account? Often, it's through simple things you do each day without thinking twice. James Lyne reminds us that it's not only the NSA that's watching us, but ever-more-sophisticated cybercriminals, who exploit both weak code and trusting human nature.

James Lyne: Everyday cybercrime -- and what you can do about it

Everyday cybercrime -- and what you can do about it

How do you pick up a malicious online virus, the kind of malware that snoops on your data and taps your bank account? Often, it's through simple things you do each day without thinking twice. James Lyne reminds us that it's not only the NSA that's watching us, but ever-more-sophisticated cybercriminals, who exploit both weak code and trusting human nature.

Cybercriminals have evolved into organized, professional enterprises, offering everything from hacking services to technical support for malware. Every day, 250,000 new computer viruses emerge, targeting not just individuals but small business websites and even critical infrastructure. Seemingly harmless actions, such as plugging in a USB drive or connecting to public Wi-Fi, can open the door to sophisticated attacks. While the threats grow rapidly, most successful breaches rely on people neglecting basic digital hygiene.