I recently became aware of the practice of “collateral hacking.” In essence, it is the means by which hackers access a company’s sensitive data through a third party. For example, it is said that the hackers who accessed the data of Target last year did so through the company that provided refrigeration and HVAC services to some locations of the store. But the problem is that the HVAC company’s network system wasn’t secure. And so the hackers accessed their login info for Target, and through that accessed Target’s data.
Large companies like Target may have sophisticated security protocols for their internal networks. However, there may be other parties that are given access because of services they may provide—such as HVAC monitoring, external or cloud back-up storage, and even monitoring of vending machine supplies. And these third parties that have access to their networks may not be as vigilant with regard to security issues. And once the system of the third-party is breached, they provide a backdoor access to the large company’s data.
How does one respond to such information? Many respond with fear. For instance, they decide never to use online services again. They determine that to do so is to keep their sensitive information safe from people with evil intent. But in doing so they also deny themselves the conveniences that technology offers. Besides, if one has a bank account, for example, personal data is already recorded in some computer server. Bank employees could access the data in the course of accomplishing their job. But it is also conceivable that hackers have the ability to access that same information despite one’s technological self-deprivation.
Perhaps there’s a better way: vigilance. One can proceed to live life normally, enjoying technological advancements, but at the same time doing all that is possible to set-up safeguards that would make it difficult for others to do harm. In other words, it’s not about denying the possibility of being victimized but about choosing to enjoy the blessings of life.
In all of life, vigilance is preferable over fear. Fear is the tool of the enemy. Fear will keep us from living the life God intended for us. But we have Christ. We need not live in fear. “Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith … the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Peter 5.8–10 NET).
—Keith Y. Jainga