Of all the cloud services that we can use, Google Drive is one of the most popular. It is free, although it also has paid versions with more space. It can be used on the mobile and on the computer, in addition to having many useful functions for day to day. But are there risks when using this platform? The truth is that yes and in this article we are going to explain why. We are going to talk about what are the main attacks that hackers can use through Drive.
Attack via Drive
The goal of cybercriminals may be to steal passwords, sneak in a virus, or collect personal information. As you will see, there are multiple strategies that they can use. Preventing them is key to keep safe at all times and not have any type of problem that puts your data and your devices at risk.
Malicious files
The first thing is that they can strain files which are actually malware. They can upload a document or any program that pretends to be real, but actually contains viruses. They could steal your passwords if you run that malicious file, infect your computer, or steal personal data of any kind.
Although Google Drive has its own security mechanisms to detect malicious files, there is always a risk of a document slipping through that has failed to identify it as a threat. Therefore, be careful and always be wary of strange files.
Phishing attacks
Another risk is attacks Phishing. We have seen on occasions that they upload files with information to scam. For example, they can upload a text document with an image from a URL to get some profit or for anything. By entering that address, you are actually accessing a website created for the theft of passwords.
Again, common sense is important to avoid this type of attack via Drive. Run away from any suspicious link, regardless of its origin. Sometimes it may even be sent to you by a friend or family member, as they could be using your account without your knowledge to reach other victims.
fake apps
It is essential that you install programs only from official sources. One more case where they can use Drive to steal personal data and sneak in viruses is to get you to install an app that is actually a scam. It is an application that pretends to be Google Drive, but is actually a fake program.
Therefore, you should always go to official pages to install programs. Failing that, you can use app stores like Google Play. In this way you make sure that you are installing a program that has previously passed a filter.
fraudulent invitations
Through Google Drive they could reach you invitations to edit a file or be able to access any document that they have previously uploaded. But be careful, these invitations could sometimes be a fraud. They could use them just to steal information and sneak malware into you without you realizing it.
Always check very well what they have sent you and what it contains. When in doubt, never enter a link that could be a scam. Look for information on the Internet or ask the supposed person who sent you that invitation. It is important to avoid Spam files in Drive.
As you see, they can use Google Drive to steal your data, passwords or sneak viruses through different methods. It is essential that you take preventive measures so as not to fall into the trap. The objective is to maintain security and not have any type of problem that exposes your personal information and devices.
