The app also includes an inbuilt reverse image search to spot pictures which may be re-used from other sites since this is often a hallmark of fake identities. The user's responses will be analyzed to say whether a profile is high, medium, or low-risk.
Digital Desk: A new app has been
launched by the UK government to prevent people from falling victim to online
approaches by foreign spies.
The spies are seeking to lure people
into passing on sensitive information.
The Think Before You Link app will
help people spot suspicious approaches. Spies have long approached people with
access to sensitive information, but the online world has allowed this to
happen on a huge scale and at a distance. There is no longer a need to sidle up
to someone at a conference or over a coffee when you can use a fake profile
online to lure them into a conversation.
Initially, those approached may be
asked for less sensitive information before crossing a line.
The app is primarily aimed at
government officials and those in sensitive industries, but everyone will be
able to download it for free starting today. Designed with the help of
behavioural scientists, the app prompts users with a series of questions to
help assess if someone who has approached them might be faking it. This
includes being on the lookout for flattery or offers that appear too good to be
true.
According to the app's website, users
will even be able to earn "trophies and certificates which can be shared
with their security team."
The app also includes an inbuilt
reverse image search to spot pictures which may be re-used from other sites
since this is often a hallmark of fake identities. The user's responses will be
analyzed to say whether a profile is high, medium, or low-risk.
The app is the latest move from the
Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure's (CPNI) Think Before You
Link campaign.
Fake profiles are being created on an
"industrial scale," according to Steve Barclay, lead Minister for
Cyber Security. "It is, therefore, crucial that we do all we can to
protect ourselves and our information, ensuring those who we connect with
online are who they say they are." This new app will be an important tool
in that endeavour".
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