Everyone should be a hacker: our home is a data center (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Our homes have become small data centers.
• Artificial intelligence has changed the world of cyber attacks.
• It is important to take responsibility for your own cybersecurity.

Key facts

• What: Our homes have become small data centers.
• When: By 2026.
• Where: In every home with connected devices.
• Who: Keren Elazari, cybersecurity expert.
• Amount: Not specified.

In 2014, in a TED conference that made her known to the general public, Keren Elazari defined hackers – that is, cyber pirates – as the immune system of the internet: the organisms that identify its vulnerabilities, allowing us to patch them.

"I was inspired by ethical hackers, like me" – the Israeli researcher, specialized in cybersecurity for over 20 years and known online as k3r3n3, specified in the interview she gave us before participating in an ATED event – "but today everyone can benefit from the hacker mentality."

The reason is simple: "Artificial intelligence has changed everything, it has become a transformative force" Elazari explained. "Criminals were the first to adopt it: already three years ago they were using AI to launch attacks, while governments and companies are only now using it to defend themselves. Even less sophisticated cybercriminals now have access to very powerful tools, such as Chinese open-source models. This is lowering the barrier to entry into the world of cyber attacks and giving the bad guys a very significant advantage."

But AI can also allow each of us to become the sovereign of the small digital republic that is our home.

…

Operational details

Practical Implications

Keren Elazari's words remind us how important it is to take our cybersecurity into our own hands. In an era where artificial intelligence is increasingly present in our lives, we must be aware of the risks and opportunities it brings.

Concrete Steps to Protect Our Privacy

1. Inventory of Devices: Make a list of all devices connected to the internet in your home. This will give you a clear view of what is connected and what might be vulnerable.

2. Use of Artificial Intelligence: Use tools like ChatGPT or Google AI to better understand how your home network works. These tools can provide valuable information on how to protect your devices.

3. Verification of Credentials: Ensure that your router does not use default usernames and passwords. Change these credentials to something more secure and personalized.

Reflection on Privacy

Privacy is a fundamental right, but today it is often treated as a privilege. We must be aware of what we share online and how this information can be used. Even if we have nothing to hide today, we must think about the future and how our information might be used in the future.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is not just a matter of technology, but also of awareness and responsibility. By following these simple steps, we can protect our privacy and ensure that our personal information remains safe.

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Key points

Concrete actions for border workers

For border crossers, cybersecurity is even more important, as they often have to manage sensitive information between two countries. Here are some concrete actions you can take:

1. Ongoing training : Participate in cybersecurity training to stay up to date on the latest threats and how to protect yourself.

2. Using Secure Tools: Use secure software and hardware to protect your devices. This includes the use of antivirus, firewall and VPN.

3. Expert Consultation: If you have concerns about the security of your devices, consult a cybersecurity expert. These professionals can provide you with personalised advice and tailor-made solutions.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is a responsibility we all need to take seriously. By following these tips and remaining vigilant, we can protect our privacy and ensure that our personal information remains secure. Don't forget to use our calculator to estimate the costs and benefits of your cybersecurity.

Calcolatore di sicurezza informatica

Source: rsi.ch