Every device that connects to the internet, or BlueTooth, has an IP address that’s unique to it. This address gives out information like the general area you live in and what internet service you use, so it’s a good idea to become familiar with how to protect it: and, in turn, protect yourself.
These are five scary things that hackers can do if they have your IP address and why it’s important to be cautious.
Figure Out Your Identity and Location
Your IP carries information like your general location and the internet provider you use, meaning that if someone already has your legal name, they can do a quick google search to figure out your general area. A truly driven hacker can eventually use this information to determine your specific location and more information about you than you’d probably feel comfortable sharing online.
Download Illegal Content While Framing You
Illegal content doesn’t just mean bootleg versions of movies. There’s a lot of content out there that, if tied to you, can land you in prison for multiple years. If your IP address is stolen, a hacker can spoof it so that their online behavior appears to be yours, and this can lead to you having to defend yourself in court to show that the conduct wasn’t yours. This could mean having to protect yourself against accusations of buying drugs online, downloading illegal imagery, or even creating national security threats.
Launch a DDoS Attack to Take Away Your Service
A DDoS or DoS attack is a denial of service attack that can stop you from accessing network resources like online accounts and email. The most common way hackers perform this attack is by flooding your address with server attacks. VPNs can block this, and will save you from having to ask yourself, “what happens if they know my IP address,” instead of just enjoying your time on the internet,
Prevent You From Getting to Websites and Games
Similar to a DDoS attack, these hackers can also block you from accessing websites and games and take away your ability to enjoy your time online. This can have disastrous effects that could lead to you not being able to work from home or stop you from accessing your banking information if they’re draining an account.
Sell Your Information on the Dark Web
Sometimes the way people use your information is more nefarious. Hackers can make easy money by selling your information on the dark web. Then others who want to use your information for anything from downloading illegal content to stealing your identity can do so cheaply. This is the worst option because it’s impossible to trace who has it and how they got their hands on it.
Everyone Deserves to Feel Safe Online
Whether you’re nervous because someone already has your IP address, or you’re cautious and want to know the risks, it’s important to consider your behavior online carefully. Avoid clicking unfamiliar links, use a VPN if you can afford to, and become familiar with the process of changing your IP address when necessary.
