We live in a digital world where everything from our bank accounts to our holiday snaps is just a few clicks away. Handy? Absolutely. But it also means we’ve got more to lose if the wrong person gains access. While most of us know to watch out for dodgy emails and to choose stronger passwords than “123456,” cybercriminals have upped their game with far more subtle (and frankly, quite clever) ways to get into our accounts.
In this guide, we’ll lift the lid on seven lesser-known hacking tactics you should be aware of, and what you can do to stay one step ahead.
Common Hacking Techniques (And Why They Still Work)
Before diving into the sneakier stuff, let’s take a quick look at some old-school methods that are still doing the rounds:
- Brute force attacks – where hackers use software to try millions of password combinations until they crack the code.
- Credential stuffing – reusing stolen login details from previous breaches to get into other accounts (because, let’s face it, many people still reuse passwords).
- Social engineering – convincing you to hand over information willingly through manipulation, often by pretending to be someone you trust.
And now, with AI in the mix, attacks are becoming more targeted, more believable, and much harder to detect.
But here’s where it gets interesting. Some of the methods hacker’s use don’t rely on you making a mistake. Instead, they exploit hidden weak spots in our digital technology we use every day.
7 Surprising Ways Hackers Can Get Into Your Accounts
Let’s unpack some of the more under-the-radar techniques cybercriminals are using today:
1. Cookie Hijacking
Cookies help websites remember you, so you don’t have to log in every five minutes. Helpful, right? But these little data files can be intercepted by hackers—especially on unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi. Once stolen, hackers can use your cookies to pretend to be you, no password needed.
Quick tip: Use secure websites (look for HTTPS), avoid logging in on public Wi-Fi, and clear your cookies now and then.
2. SIM Swapping
Your phone number is often the backup key for most things online - used for two-factor authentication (2FA) and password recovery. SIM swapping involves tricking your mobile provider into transferring your number to a new SIM. Once hackers control your number, they can intercept verification codes and reset your passwords.
This one’s especially nasty because it usually happens before you even realise something’s off.
3. Deepfake Impersonation
Deepfakes used to be the stuff of sci-fi, but not anymore. Hackers can now create fake videos or voice clips that sound eerily real. They might pretend to be your boss asking for a file, or worse, a family member in trouble. It’s social engineering, but with a terrifying upgrade.
4. Third-Party App Vulnerabilities
Linking apps together can be super convenient, but that’s until one of those apps turns out to be the weak link. If a third-party app you’ve connected to your email or cloud storage has poor security, hackers can use it as a backdoor into your main account.
Rule of thumb: If you don’t use an app anymore, revoke its access.
5. Port-Out Fraud
Similar to SIM swapping, port-out fraud involves transferring your phone number to a different mobile provider. Once that happens, the hacker receives all your calls and texts, including those all-important 2FA codes. Think of it as digital identity theft, only sneakier.
6. Keylogging Malware
Keyloggers track every single keystroke you make - yes, even your passwords. These sneaky bits of software often hitch a ride on shady downloads or phishing links. Once installed, they quietly send your info back to the hacker without you ever knowing.
Keep your devices protected with updated antivirus software and only download from trusted sources.
7. AI-Driven Phishing Emails
Gone are the days of poorly written emails claiming you’ve won the lottery. Today’s phishing attacks are often powered by AI, making them look frighteningly real. Emails appear to come from your actual bank, employer, or favourite retailer, using language that feels familiar and trustworthy.
How to Protect Yourself From These Stealthy Threats
Now that you’ve seen what you’re up against, let’s talk about how to fight back. Here are practical steps you can take today:
Strengthen Your Authentication
If you’re still using your dog’s name and a couple of numbers as your password, it’s time for an upgrade. Use long, unique passwords for each account, and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. Better yet, switch to app-based MFA (like Google or Microsoft Authenticator) or a hardware security key instead of relying on SMS codes.
Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
Most platforms now offer login alerts or suspicious activity notifications, they’re there for a reason, so use them! Regularly check for unusual logins, especially from unknown devices or locations. Rember that if you see a suspicious login attempt, change your password because its always better to be safe than sorry.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Traps
Public Wi-Fi is a hacker’s playground. If you have to use it, avoid accessing sensitive accounts or use a VPN to encrypt your connection.
Audit Your App Permissions
Take a few minutes to go through your connected apps and services. Remove any you don’t use and make sure the ones you do, have the right access level. No point giving a game app full access to your email, right?
Sharpen Your Phishing Skills
If an email looks a little off, it probably is. Don’t click links or download attachments unless you’re absolutely sure they’re legit. When in doubt, contact the sender directly (but not by replying to the suspicious email). Check out our article on How to Spot a Phishing Email.
Going Beyond the Basics: Proactive Cyber Hygiene
Cyber security isn’t a one-time fix, it should be a habit. Here are a few simple, but ongoing strategies to help you stay protected:
Keep Software Updated
Outdated software is like an open door for hackers. Set your devices and apps to auto-update if you can, this saves you having to remember and you get the latest update as soon as its ready. That patch you’ve been ignoring might be closing a serious security hole.
Backup, Backup, Backup
Stick to the 3-2-1 rule: three copies of your data, two different types of storage (like an external drive and the cloud), and one copy kept offsite. That way, even if ransomware strikes, you won’t be held hostage.
Use Encrypted Messaging
If you’re sharing sensitive info—like personal documents or account details—stick to secure messaging platforms with end-to-end encryption. WhatsApp is a good example of this.
Get Cyber Security Training
Whether you're running a business or just want to keep your family safe online, cyber security education goes a long way. Learn how to spot threats before they become problems.
Take Control of Your Online Security
Hackers methods are constantly evolving, and that means our defences must too. By staying informed, adopting smart habits, and being just a little bit cautious, you can drastically reduce your chances of falling victim to these dangers.
Need help beefing up your cyber defences? That’s where we come in. We work with you and your businesses to secure accounts, protect data, and keep one step ahead so you can sleep better at night stress free. Get in touch today for practical, jargon-free help and peace of mind.
