Case Studies
Choose an interesting case study from our list of cases and discuss with others. Or, ponder the implications of the case and see if you can apply your Cyber Smart skills!
The Snapchat Hacking Incident
Topic: Account Security
In 2014, hackers exploited a vulnerability in Snapchat, compromising the usernames and phone numbers of 4.6 million users. This incident emphasizes the need for strong passwords and the importance of enabling two-factor authentication to secure social media accounts.
The "Catfishing" Scam on Instagram
Topics: Social Engineering, Cyberbullying & Harassment
A 14-year-old girl was targeted by a catfisher on Instagram, who used a fake profile to gain her trust and later harass her. This case highlights the dangers of social engineering and cyberbullying on social media.
The Facebook-Cambridge Analytica Scandal
Topic: Personal Data Management
The 2018 scandal revealed how the data of over 87 million Facebook users was improperly accessed and used without consent, stressing the importance of understanding how personal information can be misused online.
The Snapchat Map Feature Controversy
Topics: Privacy Settings & Permissions
Snapchat’s “Snap Map” feature sparked privacy concerns by allowing users to share their real-time location, underscoring the importance of being aware of privacy settings and permissions on social media platforms.
The WannaCry Ransomware Attack
Topics: Ransomware & Malware
The 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack affected over 200,000 computers globally, highlighting the severe risks posed by ransomware and the critical importance of keeping software up to date to prevent such attacks.
The Twitter Bitcoin Scam
Topics: Phishing & Social Engineering
In July 2020, a phishing attack led to the compromise of high-profile Twitter accounts, including those of Barack Obama and Elon Musk. The scam showcased how social engineering can be used to infiltrate even the most secure platforms.
