There are many types of malicious software that can affect our devices and compromise privacy on the web. They could even control our accounts and impersonate personal identity. In this article we report on a new malware, yet another threat, that has stolen millions of passwords from Windows users . In reality, it is something that is more present than we imagine, so action must be taken. We are going to explain how to know if we have been victims of this or any other threat.
Check if passwords have been stolen in Windows
This time it is a personal data leak . A new threat has managed to steal browser cookies, millions of files, emails, and login credentials. These files also included personal passwords. There have even been techniques for taking screenshots when the victim logs in.
Now, what happens to all that stolen data? Cybercriminals usually steal passwords to access social networks, streaming video platforms or email. This can end up on the Dark Web , available to anyone who wants to pay for it.
As we can see, it is one more way to profit. At the end of the day, our personal information has great value on the net, but even more so are access codes. Hence, we must be prepared to maintain security and not make any mistakes.
From NordLocker they indicate that nowadays anyone can access a personalized malware capable of attacking other users with the aim of stealing passwords. We are no longer talking only about a specific malware that affects Windows, but also Phishing attacks or any other tool capable of collecting personal information.
One thing we can do to find out if we are victims is to quickly check if the passwords have been leaked . We have the possibility of using Have I Been Pwned , an online platform that allows us to know if our password or e-mail address have been compromised in a security breach.
It is very useful not only for this particular case, but for any other attack that may have occurred at some point. We will be able to know if our access codes have been leaked and in this way take action as soon as possible.
Tips for protecting passwords
It is very important to always create keys that are strong and complex . We should not use any password that we can easily memorize or that we are even using elsewhere. It should contain letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and any other special symbols that may offer good protection.
In addition, as an additional measure we can use two-step authentication , something that is increasingly present. This adds an extra layer of security that is very useful to protect our accounts. Basically it is a second code that we must put when logging in.
Another issue to keep in mind is to use password managers . They will help us to create strong keys, but also to remember them in a safe place. We have many options in this regard and without a doubt it is something that comes in handy. Of course, using key managers in the browser can be dangerous.
Ultimately, it is as important to create strong passwords as it is to periodically check if they have been leaked. We have seen what to do to easily find out if we have been victims of any of the many threats that are present.
