Have you been hacked?

Ransomware, phishing, pizza plugging, sim swapping, … just a few of the multitude of internet scams or hacks out there on the web. And who knows? You might have been hacked already. Because remembering 10 different alphanumeric passwords is a mission.

Modern companies have entire departments that develop intricate security systems to keep hackers at bay. And you? You are probably using the same password (or a variation of…) on almost every online platform. Are we right?

The question then is: what do you do once you have been hacked? Even better, how do you prevent it? We are pretty big on cybersecurity here at ING. This should be pretty obvious, since we develop digital technology AND we are a bank.

Here’s what you need to do…

to not get hacked
to avoid damage if you get hacked.

Editor’s note: if all the following tips and tricks are old news for you, and you would rather talk encryption methods, SQL injection, and other super-geeky cyber security stuff…Then you might want to keep an eye on our Coffee Chats. We regularly add chats with experts on the different topics on this platform.

Stop using your mother’s name and date of birth as a password … everywhere

How to protect yourself from hackers…

Use a password manager
Enable 2-factor authentication
Do your updates
Get a certified anti-virus programme
Stop using illegal download sites ;)
Stop using dodgy video streaming websites
Make back-ups

What to do when you suspect you’ve been hacked…

Change your passwords
Block your bank cards … NOW!
Listen to your antivirus programme
Re-install your OS
Install your back-up (you did make a back-up, right?)
Feel threatened? Call the cops

We live in a world where we are connected 24/7 and where technology is constantly improving. At the same time, long gone are the kids (aka “hackers”) who caused virtual mischief from their parents’ basements. Cybercrime is serious business now, and so is ING’s priority to run a safe, secure and compliant bank. As an IT-heavy company, we want to make sure data is exchanged safely, for our customers, employees and suppliers. At the same time, we need to find the right balance between cybersecurity, innovation and dealing with data/privacy in an ethical way. If you are that kid in the basement, but with good intentions, then you'll find a bunch of interesting career horizons in the virtual world.