Have you heard of webcams being hacked? Electronic gadgets have undeniably improved our lives in many ways. However, convenience comes at a price, and to avoid paying more than necessary due to cyber risks, it is time to take greater caution in simple everyday tasks such as making video calls with loved ones or work associates.

Researchers have discovered some Android apps contain a bug that allows an attacker to take control of the phone’s camera and take photos or record videos through a rogue application without a user’s permission! Whether you are using a smartphone or computer, it’s time to practise ‘cyber hygiene’ and here are some easy tips on how you can stay safe online. Read on!

What is cyber hygiene?

Before we proceed, cyber hygiene refers to the activities that computer system users undertake to improve online security, so as to avoid becoming victims of cybercrimes.

#Tip 1: Examine the indicator light

For laptop users, keep an eye on the indicator light next to your laptop camera. Is it on even when you are not using it? If it is, you should check to ensure there’s no cyber security breach such as an application or browser extension using your webcam.

#TiqOurWord  Scan your computer with anti-malware software if you suspect that your computer has been hacked.

#Tip 2: Are you experiencing “ghost touches”?

If your laptop or phone is behaving abnormally with random apps running on their own, it’s likely a sign that someone else has remote access to your phone and is messing with it. It’s time to change your passwords and an immediate factory reset may be your best solution.

#Tip 3: Cover up

Never say never. One of the better approaches to protect yourself from being hacked is to use the Anti-Hack Camera Cover, which is a simple sliding cover that hides the camera view on your electronic devices. Slide the cover aside when you want to use your camera, and slide it back again after use to deter hackers from watching you through the webcam. The best part? The Anti-Hack Camera Cover can be used to cover your laptop, tablet and smartphone camera.

#Tip 4: Keep your gadgets up-to-date

Keeping your electronic gadgets and accompanying applications up-to-date can remove bugs and fix security gaps, making it harder for hackers to access your devices. It’s kind of like ensuring your door or window is fixed to keep out trespassers. If you have not installed an antivirus software, it’s time to download one.

#Tip 5: Have a backup plan

You have done your best to minimise the risks of cyber security breach but here’s the golden rule: always have a backup plan. Apart from practising ‘cyber hygiene’ whenever you’re connected to the Internet, do consider the Personal Cyber Insurance at Tiq by Etiqa Insurance for the “just in case”. Our Personal Cyber Insurance insures you and your family from cyber security breaches with coverage of up to $25,000 for a year. Learn more.

Prevention is better than cure

Last month, hackers hijacked the streaming of a home-based lesson to show obscene pictures to some students, leading the Ministry of Education to reiterate security measures to teachers when using video conferencing platform. Hackers can easily take control of your webcam remotely. Instead of thinking that it won’t happen to you, it’s time to exercise greater caution to stay safe online.

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Information is accurate as at 14 May 2020. This policy is underwritten by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Company Reg. No. 201331905K). Protected up to specified limits by SDIC.

Tiq by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd.
A digital insurance channel that embraces changes to provide simple and convenient protection, Tiq’s mission is to make insurance transparent and accessible, inspiring you today to be prepared for life’s surprises and inevitabilities, while empowering you to “Live Unlimited” and take control of your tomorrow.

With a shared vision to change the paradigm of insurance and reshape customer experience, Etiqa created the strong foundation for Tiq. Because life never stops changing, Etiqa never stops progressing. A licensed life and general insurance company registered in the Republic of Singapore and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, Etiqa is governed by the Insurance Act and has been providing insurance solutions since 1961. It is 69% owned by Maybank, Southeast Asia’s fourth largest banking group, with more than 22 million customers in 20 countries; and 31% owned by Ageas, an international insurance group with 33 million customers across 16 countries.

Discover the full range of Tiq online insurance plans here.