Cybersecurity expert warns: your smartphone can hack a general.

According to ТСН: Today, cyber threats have become part of our lives, affecting the security of everyone. Cybersecurity expert Konstantin Korsun emphasizes the importance of introducing a mandatory subject on cybersecurity in schools, as every Ukrainian can become a potential target for hackers.

Every user in the digital world

Korsun emphasizes that the role of an ordinary person in the digital environment has changed: now any user can become a "link" through which malicious actors achieve their goals.

"With 2-3 handshakes, one can reach the president of the country or a general during wartime. Simple people are used to hack messengers, and through contacts, one can really hack a wealthy person or conduct political campaigns."

The threat of hacks

The expert believes that hacking one smartphone can open access to contacts, creating a domino effect that threatens not only the security of the state but can also lead to significant financial losses.

Korsun also pointed out the basic principles of cyber hygiene that many continue to ignore, although they should have been implemented ten years ago. Among the main practices:

• Using two-factor authentication on all services.

• Regularly updating the operating system.

• Using reliable VPN services.

• Protecting personal data from third parties.

Social networks and deepfakes

Social networks and deepfake technologies pose a separate threat. Fake videos that gain millions of views can influence public opinion. Although views do not lead to immediate actions, they slowly shape our perception of reality.

"The best defense against such manipulations is not only technical means but also the two most powerful tools that everyone has: common sense and critical thinking."

The expert notes that with the growth of digitalization, society faces new risks that not long ago seemed like fictional stories.

Moreover, a case of fraud occurred in Kyiv when a fake bank employee deceived a 75-year-old pensioner, seizing 64 thousand hryvnias using 'vishing' technology by changing the number through SIP telephony. Law enforcement has already reported suspicion against the perpetrator in two crimes.

In the context of digital threats, it is important to remember that protection in the virtual space depends not only on technologies but also on the awareness of each of us. Deepening knowledge about cybersecurity can help reduce risks and protect oneself and loved ones from possible fraudulent schemes.