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Cyber Security Coverage
From identity theft to phishing to the right (and memorable) password, the need for cyber security is pervasive in modern life.
Our smartphones, our homes, our work computers and even our cars collect data and store personal information that can be used against us by bad actors.
To protect your digital footprint, WRAL reports on the best practices, security software, password measures and the just plain scams that you need to know about.
Cyber threats can include malware – software designed to gain access to a computer or device without the owner's knowledge or permission – or attacks on personal information. Bank or credit card account numbers, passwords, phone numbers and other information allow a hacker to use or sell your identity.
Cyber security tips
Only use trusted sites when providing your personal information. A good rule of thumb is to check the URL. If the site includes “https://,” then it’s a secure site. If the URL includes “http://,” — note the missing “s” — avoid entering sensitive information like your credit card data or Social Security number.
Don’t open email attachments or click links in emails from unknown sources. One of the most common ways people are attacked is through emails disguised as being sent by someone you trust.
Always keep your devices updated. Software updates contain important patches to fix security issues. Cyberattackers thrive on outdated devices because they don’t have the most current security software.
Back up your files regularly. If you need to wipe your device clean due to a cyberattack, it will help to have your files stored in a safe, separate place.
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Chatham County water customers should prepare for big bills after months lost to hack
After a cyber attack halted water bills for months in Chatham County, officials are preparing to start sending the bills again. -
Chatham officials didn't pay ransom but still face hefty price from hack
Chatham County government is still recovering from a cyber attack nearly four months ago. -
Cybersecurity scams to avoid during COVID-19
Neil Daswani from Stanford University talks about cybersecurity scams promoting COVID relief with malicious links that can compromise your identity, card information and more. -
FBI investigates tip that a woman possibly stole a laptop from Pelosi's office to potentially sell it to Russia
In a new criminal court case against a woman alleged to have entered the US Capitol on January 6, the FBI noted that a tipster raised the possibility of a laptop being stolen from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office to potentially sell to Russia. -
Focus, double-check sites' security before shopping
As the pandemic drives more holiday shoppers to fill their carts online, it's hunting season for the bad guys. -
Cyber shopping is hunting season for hackers
As the pandemic drives more holiday shoppers to fill their carts online, it's hunting season for the bad guys. -
NCCU launches virtual cybersecurity lab
The pandemic forced North Carolina Central University to launch classes in a new cybersecurity lab virtual environment rather than in person. -
NCCU launches state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab
The pandemic forced North Carolina Central University to launch classes in a new cybersecurity lab virtual environment rather than in person. -
Millions of people's data left exposed on hotel reservation websites
The hotel industry has a potential security headache on its hands. -
Reports of Cash App hacks multiply
After 5 On Your Side's Monica Laliberte shared one story of money disappearing from cash apps, many others reached out saying it happened to them, too. -
Accounts hacked? More Cash App customers contact 5 On Your Side
After 5 On Your Side's Monica Laliberte shared one story of money disappearing from cash apps, many others reached out saying it happened to them, too. -
FBI director Wray says Russia is actively interfering in 2020 election to 'denigrate' Biden
FBI Director Christopher Wray said Thursday that Russia has been "very active" in its efforts to influence US elections, with the primary goal being to "denigrate" Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden. -
NC National Guard's new mission: Protect your vote
A National Guard unit in North Carolina has battled Isis in Syria. Not it's mission is to protect the vote here at home. -
FBI-created games help kids develop good cyber security habits
The FBI is helping students develop good online habits at a time when kids are spending more hours each day on the internet. -
FBI warns of cyber predators, offers free 'Safe Online' training
The FBI is helping students develop good online habits at a time when kids are spending more hours each day on the internet. -
City of Rocky Mount working to fix cyber attack issue
WRAL's Leslie Moreno has the latest as the City of Rocky Mount works to restore operations that were impacted by a recent cyber attack. -
Rocky Mount officials encourage residents to change, secure their passwords after cyber attack
Rocky Mount officials are investigating a possible cyber attack on the city's computer system. The problem emerged about two weeks ago, forcing residents to pay all their city bills in person. City officials refuse to provide details at this time. -
Rocky Mount city computers, bill pay, disrupted
Rocky Mount officials have not yet given any information on why the city's computers and online bill pay have been disrupted. Investigators are looking into a potential cyber attack. -
Rocky Mount investigates possible cyber attack on city's computer system
Rocky Mount officials are investigating a possible cyber attack on the city's computer system. The problem emerged about two weeks ago, forcing residents to pay all their city bills in person. City officials refuse to provide details at this time. -
Fayetteville principal has email impersonated, inappropriate messages sent to faculty, students
The principal of Jack Britt High School in Fayetteville had his e-mail address cloned and inappropriate messages were sent out to the school community appearing to be from him.