The number of claims related to cyber crimes in Macedonia has increased drastically, the Sector for Computer Security and Digital Forensics informs.
The e-mails and user passwords are stolen, thus all correspondence between Macedonian and foreign companies gets compromised. This allows criminals direct control over transactions and correspondence.
"Hackers monitor the communication to the moment a contract between a company and a customer is achieved, i.e. until an invoice/receipt has been sent to the recipient. In that moment, hackers forge the invoice information in order to redirect the resources to another account. False accounts are usually opened in foreign countries", experts warn.
According to experts, due to the complexity of the investigation which involves international organizations and regulations, the best way to protect oneself from cyber attacks is to be extremely cautious while using the world wide web and during the business correspondence.
How to protect yourself against cyber threats
Connect securely wherever you are: Only connect to the Internet over secure, password-protected networks.
Think before you click: Do not clink on links or pop-ups, open attachments, or respond to emails from strangers.
Respond only to trusted messages: Do not respond to online requests for personal information such as your date of birth or your credit card numbers; most organizations-banks, universities, companies, etc.-do not ask for your personal information over the internet.
Use passwords properly: Select strong passwords and change them frequently. Password protect all devices that connect to the internet and user accounts.
Stay aware: Routinely monitor bank and credit card accounts for unauthorized charges and unauthorized accounts that have been opened under your name.