(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) THE RECENT news that Yahoo Inc is investigating reports of a breach that might have compromised the email addresses and passwords of about half a million users once again underlines the need for tighter online security measures.
While the company says they are investigating into the incident, several technology sites have cited hackers claiming responsibility for the cyber-attack.
What the hackers derive out of violating the online privacy of the people is anybody's guess. Most of the victims, undoubtedly, would be every day users, resorting to their emails for routine correspondence and a one-off internet purchase.
However, the possibility that one's email identity has been compromised is not a comforting thought for anyone.
With practically every computer literate person having an email account or being a member on social networking sites that have their personal details including photographs even of their family members, the responsibility of email providers and networking sites to uphold the interests of the users is paramount.
While the companies can claim that they do not solicit personal details and that they are offering free email and social networking service, the onus of user privacy rests solely on the provider. However, that is not to undermine the importance of the personal responsibility of online users.
It is an undeniable fact that most computer users are not adept at identifying phishing attacks, and even though news reports abound on the need for caution, several are vulnerable to falling prey to online scams. Emails promising the moon and then some, must be looked up on with caution. Remember that no sick entrepreneur or president in exile is dying to share his loot with you.
However, when hackers - several of them involved in breaching firewalls simply for the heck of it - resort to online attacks, even those who pride in internet literacy are left with little option. As a starting point, users must be vigilant in sharing their personal details on-line and ensure that credit card or bank account details are provided only on secure sites.
In today's era of e-commerce, it would be foolhardy to refrain totally from any online trade or purchase activity. After all, the convenience of paying utility bills is a time-saver for several people.
The advent of social networking sites has compounded the problem of personal privacy. The outcry over Facebook's privacy policy hasn't abated, although the site has rushed to assure users that they now have greater control over their privacy setting.
As with all online security concerns, the current issue that has Yahoo at the centre of the storm will also subside. However, the lessons from the security breach - if it really happened - must not be forgotten.
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