Cyber Mythbuster
Hollywood movies make hacking look like magic. Let's separate the facts from the fiction so you know what actually puts you at risk.
"Can I get hacked if..."
Can I get hacked just by answering a spam phone call?
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No. Simply picking up the phone and saying "Hello" cannot hack your phone or steal your passwords. However, answering does let the scammer know your number is active, which may lead to more spam calls.
Can I get hacked just by opening a spam email?
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No. Modern email providers (like Gmail and Outlook) block automatic code execution. Just reading the text of an email is safe. The danger only starts if you click a link or download an attachment.
Can I get hacked if I click a bad link but close the page immediately?
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Yes, it is possible. This is called a "Drive-by Download." Some advanced malware can infect your browser the millisecond the page loads, without you clicking anything else. You should run an antivirus scan.
Are Macs immune to viruses?
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No. While Windows historically had more viruses because it was more popular, Mac malware is very common today. You still need to use strong passwords, avoid sketchy downloads, and install updates.
Is it dangerous to charge my phone at a public USB charging station (like an airport)?
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Yes. This is called "Juice Jacking." USB cables transmit both power AND data. A compromised charging station could secretly install malware on your phone. Always use a standard electrical outlet with your own power brick.
If I have a strong password, do I really need Two-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
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Yes! A strong password only protects you from guessing. If a website you use gets breached, hackers will steal that strong password directly from the server. MFA protects you even if the hacker knows your password.
The most common way people get "hacked" isn't through complex code or super-viruses. It is through Social Engineering—simply tricking you into handing over your password.
Try the "Is It a Scam?" Decision Tree