dotpaw podcast - Cyber Security

Here are the top 10 cybersecurity risks to end users in 2025:

1. Phishing attacks (including spear-phishing & smishing)
2. Ransomware
3. Weak or stolen passwords/reused credentials
4. Malware from drive-by downloads & malicious apps
5. Unpatched software & operating systems
6. AI-powered social engineering/deepfakes
7. Supply-chain attacks (fake updates, compromised apps)
8. Public Wi-Fi/man-in-the-middle attacks
9. Identity theft & credential stuffing
10. IoT/smart home device vulnerabilities

Here are the top 10 ways end users can avoid those risks:

1. Use unique, strong passphrases + password manager
2. Enable MFA everywhere possible
3. Never click unsolicited links/attachments; verify sender
4. Keep OS, apps, and antivirus automatically updated
5. Use reputable antivirus/EDR and enable real-time protection
6. Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks or use VPN
7. Download apps only from official stores; check reviews/permissions
8. Be skeptical of urgent requests, video calls, or voice clones (verify offline)
9. Freeze credit and monitor accounts/dark web for leaks
10. Secure IoT devices: change default passwords, disable UPnP, segment network

Additional best practices for end users:

• Use a reputable ad-blocker + script blocker (uBlock Origin)
• Disable auto-run/auto-play on USB drives and email attachments
• Turn on DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) or encrypted DNS
• Regularly back up critical data to offline/off-site storage (3-2-1 rule)
• Use full-disk encryption (BitLocker/FileVault) on all devices
• Disable unnecessary services (Bluetooth, location, microphone when not needed)
• Verify HTTPS and check for valid certificates before login
• Use virtual cards or privacy cards for online purchases
• Enable automatic OS-level firewall and block inbound connections
• Shred sensitive files and wipe drives before disposal/recycling
• Educate family members and use guest networks for visitors/IoT
• Set up email aliases or catch-all for sign-ups to limit exposure

Lesser-known cybersecurity risks most end users ignore:

1. Browser fingerprinting tracks you even with cookies blocked
2. Pre-installed carrier/OEM bloatware phoning home with your data
3. Ultrasonic cross-device tracking in ads and retail stores
4. Your printer/scanner keeps full copies of everything you ever printed
5. Smart TVs a

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