Criminals target social networking sites for information

By Luke Anami

Lack of cyber security in Kenya is endangering the lives of Internet users, an Internet communication solutions provider has said.

Hackers are targeting sites like Facebook and Twitter as the social and stealing peoples identities online.

Private Information

The attacks could soon move to corporate websites and individuals and children, with fears that the access to some of the information could be used in crimes like kidnapping and burglary.

"The information you upload on your social network such as Face book and Twitter may increase the chances of you being attacked on your premises, or electronically," said Collin Mamdoo, the CEO of Internet Solutions, during a workshop held in Nairobi.

For instance, individuals communicating traveling plans on the Internet could soon fall prey to criminals who may use this to trace trace their houses before committing crimes such as burglary.

Communication

This follows the increased use of fake email and the hacking of important communication between individuals and companies, which is on the rise globally.

"The certain increased use of broadband in Kenya implies that individuals and companies will have to develop security systems that can thwart such incidents before they happen," he said.

Further, viral attacks directed at mobile phones especially the Blackberries and Nokias, could also escalate if not checked early, he added.

He advised that one should not reply e-mails informing you that you have won a lottery you did not participate in.

"Installing antivirus only will not help. There is a need to incorporate a wholly secure processes," he said.