Cyberattacks are no longer limited to corporations like telecom and financial firms—they now directly target individuals and their smart devices. With the rise of Zero-Click hacking—attacks that infiltrate without any user interaction—the threat landscape has become more sophisticated than ever.
While experts warn that perfect defense is impossible, following essential security practices remains the strongest and most practical shield for protecting our digital lives. Based on insights from Google, Naver, the Korean National Police Agency, and leading cybersecurity experts, here are seven must-follow security rules, categorized into three areas: account survival, device defense, and mindful awareness.
1. Account Survival: Plan with the Assumption You Will Be Hacked
Your ID and password can be stolen at any time. Hackers target your everyday accounts first—these are their most valuable prize.
Strong Passwords: Your Personal “Digital Key”
Weak, predictable passwords like “1234” or birthdays are like leaving your front door wide open. Always create long, complex passwords that mix uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
Most importantly, never reuse passwords across multiple sites. A single breach could compromise all of your accounts. Treat each password as a unique “digital key” tailored for each service.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Your Last Line of Defense
Even if your password is stolen, 2FA can stop attackers from accessing your account. By requiring verification through SMS or an authentication app, 2FA acts as a second gatekeeper.
For accounts holding sensitive data—Google, Naver, Kakao, or financial platforms—enabling 2FA is non-negotiable. Think of it as your account’s lifeline.
2. Device Defense: Securing Your Digital Vault
Your smartphone and PC are essentially digital vaults filled with personal data. Zero-Click attacks often exploit software vulnerabilities—but consistent device management can greatly reduce risks.
Keep Software Updated: The Best Built-In Antivirus
Ignoring update notifications leaves doors wide open for hackers. Most malware and ransomware attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that manufacturers patch through regular updates.
Always update your operating system, apps, and security software promptly. Each update is a fresh layer of armor.
Download Only from Official App Stores & Use “Maximum Protection”
Only install apps from official markets like Google Play or Apple App Store. Unknown sources may contain hidden malware capable of infecting your entire device.
Samsung Galaxy users, for instance, can enable “Auto Blocker” under Settings > Security & Privacy to stop suspicious apps and unsafe connections. For maximum safety, turn on “Maximum Protection”, though it may limit certain functions.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi & Shared PCs for Sensitive Tasks
Public Wi-Fi is often unencrypted, making it easy for hackers to intercept your data. Similarly, public PCs may contain keyloggers that secretly record everything you type—including your passwords.
Use these only for casual browsing, never for banking or logging into important accounts.
3. Mindful Awareness: Outsmarting Phishing & Smishing
No matter how advanced cyberattacks become, many still rely on human error. The most powerful security measure is your awareness.
Think Before You Click Any Link
Phishing and smishing attacks trick you into clicking malicious links. Always pause before clicking, especially if the site begins with http instead of the secure https.
If in doubt, verify suspicious messages through official channels like KISA’s “BohoNara” KakaoTalk service, which analyzes suspicious texts.
Manage Your Clipboard & Passwords Wisely
Anything you copy—like account numbers or passwords—gets stored in your device’s clipboard, which malware can access. Regularly clear your clipboard to avoid unintentional leaks.
Seemingly trivial habits can become valuable intel for hackers. Stay vigilant.
Therefore, Stay Safes!
Even with advanced threats like Zero-Click hacking, the fundamentals remain your strongest survival strategy. Secure, unique passwords, mandatory 2FA, regular software updates, and conscious digital habits create a strong framework for protecting your digital life.
Stay alert. Stay updated. Stay safe.