When talking about technology, it's impossible if we don't also talk about these two things: privacy and data security. If you think logically, with increasingly sophisticated technology, data privacy and security should also be better than before.
Paradoxically, the more sophisticated the technology, the more unsafe it makes its users. Starting from the development of viruses, and malware, to spyware which are actually several steps ahead of data security applications.
This is also what is worrying about the emergence of spyware called Pegasus which has shocked netizens around the world. That's right, the name is taken from Pegasus in Greek mythology, whose shape is quite cute.
But, ladies, don't be fooled! This Pegasus is not at all cute, let alone adorable, like the Pegasus in Greek mythology.
More Than a Spy
Developed by the Israeli company, NSO Group, Pegasus was initially created for national security purposes, with a focus on preventing the threat of terrorism and transnational crime.
The problem is, that there have been many reports showing that Pegasus is being misused by the government and private parties to track the activities of individuals, including human rights activists, journalists, and politicians, not for national security interests, but for political and economic purposes.
"But, aren't we in Indonesia, far from Israel?"
Who says we are safe from this spyware? Indonesia Leaks, a non-profit platform for anonymous reporting, reported that Pegasus had entered Indonesia via Soekarno Hatta International Airport on December 1, 2020. This report was later confirmed by Customs.
Pegasus has frightening abilities. This spyware can enter our cell phones without us realizing it. Once successfully entered, Pegasus can break into our cellphones and access all personal data, from messages, emails, and calls, to activating our cellphone's camera or microphone.
Imagine, all our activities can be monitored and recorded secretly by parties we don't know. Very scary, right?
It's not surprising that many people say that Pegasus can be called one of the most sophisticated and most dangerous spyware tools ever.
If you think, "Okay, then why should I care?"
Ladies, don't forget, data privacy and security is our right as individuals. Ladies, you don't want your data to be snooped on and misused? That's why all of us need to understand this so we can protect ourselves.
What do you need to do to prevent unwanted incidents?
1. Update the application regularly
Make sure you always update the software and applications on your cellphone. What are the benefits? The update contains improvements from the previous version to patch security gaps that can be exploited by Pegasus and his friends.
So that it's not complicated, ladies can set notifications for automatic updates so that ladies don't miss important updates. Don't forget, always make sure updates on your cellphone come from the manufacturer or official service provider to ensure optimal security.
2. Use Trusted Security Applications
There are many security applications out there that can help maintain the privacy and security of our data. Make sure you always choose one that is trusted and suits your needs, ladies!
Also, make sure Ladies activate additional protection such as data encryption and anti-malware features on personal devices to prevent unauthorized access.
3. Prevention is Better
If there is an application that asks for access to too much data or is not appropriate for its function, you should avoid it.
Make sure ladies always check the permissions requested before you install any application. The wise adage "prevention is better than cure" has proven to still be effective in this matter.
4. Educate those closest to you
Don't be stingy with knowledge, ladies! Share knowledge about digital security with those closest to you, family, friends, and colleagues. Ladies must remember that preventing together is much better than preventing alone because we will be stronger if more people understand the risks.
The presence of the Pegasus spyware seems to be a warning to all of us how vulnerable we are in an increasingly complex digital world.
So, let's educate ourselves and others together to protect privacy and personal data.
Download Fitie now so you don't miss out on other tips about privacy and personal security!