Definition
Jackware is a type of malware that affects computers and IoT devices to control their functionality instead of stealing data or files.
How Jackware Works
- Sneaks into your device by exploiting security vulnerabilities.
- Once it gains access to your device, it takes over control.
- The attacker demands a ransom by threatening to harm your device or expose your data.
Dangers of Jackware
- Physical harm: If an autonomous device such as a self-drive car is attacked, it could lead to injuries or loss of life.
- Compromised privacy: IoT devices such as home cameras and voice assistants could expose your private information.
- Disruption of critical services: In case of an attack, delivery of essential services such as healthcare could be jeopardized.
How to Protect Yourself from Jackware
- Ensure your device or software is up to date.
- Use strong passwords that are hard to guess.
- Avoid opening unknown links and files.
- Enable two-factor authentication for additional security.
- Regularly backup your data to minimize chances of total loss.
- Monitor your device performance to identify suspicious activity.
- Install reputable security software on your device.
- Limit app permissions to avoid your device being compromised.
Examples of Jackware
- Blast furnace incident: Attackers gained control over a blast furnace of a German steel manufacturing company, causing its closure.
- Vehicle hacking incident: Cybersecurity experts hacked a Jeep Cherokee’s system to expose the vulnerabilities of smart devices.
- Medical technology incident: Cybercriminals hacked embedded systems of medical imaging devices, disrupting the delivery of healthcare services.
- Trickbot incident: Cybersecurity experts uncovered the Trickbot malware that was testing the vulnerability of embedded systems.