Criminals can also hack individual websites-like email, social media, or financial institutions-and steal the information stored there. Hackers use spyware to track keystrokes or acquire pictures of your device’s screen in the hope of snagging account numbers, passwords, and other sensitive information. Hackers may install spyware by tricking you into opening spam email, or into “clicking” on attachments, images, and links in email messages, instant messages, and pop-up messages. One way is to try to obtain information directly from an Internet-connected device by installing spyware, which sends information from your device to others without your knowledge or consent.

There are two main ways hackers may try to get your personal information. To make matters worse, hackers are difficult to stop because they are often located outside the United States and use cutting edge technology to evade law enforcement and acquire large amounts of information. A hacker can do a lot of damage even if only one account or device is compromised. People also store financial information, like credit card or bank account numbers, on their devices. Many people shop, bank, and pay bills online. Hackers illegally access devices or websites to steal peoples’ personal information, which they use to commit the crimes like theft.

More devices mean more avenues for attack by hackers. Now other “smart” devices, like televisions, home security cameras, and even refrigerators, connect to the Internet. Many people are familiar with computers, tablets, smartphones, and wireless Internet. Recent reports estimate that there will be between 20 and 30 billion Internet-connected devices by 2020. Internet Safety: How to Protect Yourself Against Hackers

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