A group calling themselves CyberCaliphate recently hacked the U.S. Central Command’s Twitter and YouTube. They claim to be working on behalf of “Islamic State” militants and are the same group that the FBI is currently investigating the recent hijacking of various media outlets’ Twitter feeds and websites. The Pentagon was quick to suspend the sites, stating that its operational and military networks weren’t breached and that no classified material was accessed; although the hackers did post names, phone numbers, and email addresses of retired Army generals on publically available Pentagon websites. The listings were followed by threats like “American soldiers, we are coming, watch your back.” They also posted slides from a federally funded research and development center that depict possible scenarios for conflict with China and North Korea, but Pentagon spokesman Col. Steve Warren claims it’s the equivalent of “a prank or vandalism,” and not something to be concerned about.
In today’s society, it seems that having one’s accounts hacked is a matter of “when” not “if.” Granted, the average person does not have to worry about Islamic militants hacking their personal accounts, but a hacker out to steal your identity can also do serious harm. It’s important to use secure passwords, change them often, and not share your passwords with anyone. If you think your information has been compromised, be sure to immediately contact all of your financial institutions and have your accounts closed/numbers changed. The sooner you report any problems, the sooner and easier it is to have them resolved. If your financial institutions or the credit bureaus won’t cooperate, feel free to contact us to discuss your options. You have rights that we can help you assert to get your life back on track.
