Recently, First Lady Giana Lula da Silva’s X (formerly Twitter) account was hacked. The profile began to publish individual posts and insults against her, President Lula and the Minister of the Federal Supreme Court, Alexandre de Moraes.

Be alert to suspicious emails and messages and avoid clicking on links or providing personal information to unknown sources – Photo: Freepik/ND

IN exclusive interview with the ND Mais portal, Device security expert Carlos Moratelli shares warnings about the consequences of this type of digital attack and measures users can take to protect their accounts.

Impact on users’ digital security

Moratelli emphasizes that hacking incidents compromise users’ digital security, which can lead to breaches of privacy, identity theft, the spread of malware, reputational damage, unauthorized access to personal and professional networks, and even financial loss.

First Lady Jani’s X account hacked – Photo: Reproduction/X/ND

“Hackers may publish unwanted or harmful content in an attempt to damage the user’s reputation, as was the case with Janja,” says the expert.

Basic burglary protection measures

To protect your accounts from being hacked, Moratelli emphasizes the importance of strong passwords, password managers, two-factor authentication (2FA), software updates, phishing guards, security settings, secure Wi-Fi networks, activity monitoring, and regular backups.

Learn the types of common attacks to strengthen your defense against online threats. Photo: Freepik/ND.

“Two-factor authentication (2FA), I consider it one of the most important! If possible, enable two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security because it requires a second factor in addition to the password (such as a code sent to your phone). Avoid using SMS as 2FA because SMS is sent unencrypted over a cellular network and can be intercepted by third-party agents. I prefer to use 2FA applications such as Google Authenticator,” emphasizes Carlos.

The expert also states that “beware of suspicious emails, messages and websites that try to trick you into obtaining your personal information or login credentials. Never click on links or attachments from unknown sources,” he warns.

Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks to access important accounts. If necessary, use a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your connection and regularly back up important data. This won’t protect against hacking, but it can be vital if you lose access to your account.

Responsibility of X (formerly Twitter) and possible failures

Regarding X’s liability, Moratelli emphasizes the need to implement strong security measures, respond quickly to breaches, notify affected users, and be transparent about risks. He notes that failures often occur due to outdated software, but user responsibility is critical.

“Social media companies have a responsibility to provide a secure environment for their users, which includes implementing strong cybersecurity measures to prevent intrusions and attacks,” says Carlos.

Regularly review and adjust your security settings, including application permissions and account recovery options. Photo: DCStudio/ND.

Moratelli explains that the user is the weakest link in cybersecurity because few users follow these guidelines. “For example, if a user has provided their credentials to access a malicious website, there is little that X or any other social network can do about it, the account will be hacked. At this moment, a quick response from the social network is needed to minimize the damage.”

Legal development of the First Lady’s case

The hack of Janya Lula da Silva’s account led to an investigation by the Federal Police and action by the Federal Attorney General’s Office. Moratelli mentions the need to preserve digital records and emphasizes that the victim’s situation makes this case special.

Regularly back up important data to ensure recovery if access is lost or your account is hacked – Photo: Freepik/ND

The role of platforms and competent authorities

Moratelli also emphasizes the important role of platforms in ensuring digital security and authorities in investigating, identifying those responsible and taking legal action. Effective collaboration occurs through the exchange of information to prevent future attacks.

Given the scenario of increasing cyber threats and hacking attacks, awareness and adoption of digital security practices become important to protect the integrity of social media accounts.