The growth of electronic commerce has radically transformed the way we conduct financial transactions, facilitating access to benefits and services around the world. However, this convenience has led to a significant increase in the risk of fraud, data theft and other cyber threats. The use of tools such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) is common in an attempt to protect these transactions; However, depending exclusively on them may not be enough. In this article, we will explore effective strategies that promote security in online transactions. Compreendendo as Ameaças: Além das VPNs. Many times, it is assumed that the use of a VPN is a definitive solution to protect online information. However, it is crucial to understand that these methods are diverse and are not limited to unauthorized network access. Phishing, malware and ransomware attacks are only a few ways in which cybercriminals attempt to access users\' confidential data. Therefore, using a VPN can offer some privacy and encrypt your internet connection, but it does not prevent other inherent risks. Online transactions and implementation of multifactor authentication (MFA) are common. This approach requires users to provide several forms of identification before accessing their accounts. This can include something that you know (a name), something that you possui (a code sent to the cell phone or a physical token) and something that you know (digital impressions or facial recognition). Although this method is not foolproof, it significantly increases the difficulty for the invaders and will not compromise us.

Practical MFA example

Let\'s consider an online banking platform. If a user attempts to login on a new device, in addition to entering their username and login, they must receive a code on their cell phone to complete the login. This means that, just as an attacker obtains user information through techniques such as phishing, he or she would still need physical access to the user\'s phone to commit fraud. It is important to note that each additional layer requires more effort from the user; However, the security benefits justify this inconvenience.

Cryptography: Protecting Confidential Information

Cryptography also plays a crucial role in protecting online transactions. Please ensure that all confidential information transmitted is encrypted to prevent hackers from intercepting data during transmission. Protocols such as HTTPS are essential to establish a secure connection between the user\'s browser and the web server. Likewise, advanced cryptography technologies can be implemented by companies to protect information not only during transmission, but also while it is armed on their servers. Applying this idea to the business environment, it could be implemented in e-mails with sensitive data to guarantee that only the sender and the recipient have access to these information.

User Education: A Fundamental Key

Embora we have advanced technologies and robust systems to protect online transactions, the human factor continues to be one of the greatest vulnerabilities. Continued education on safe practices and fraud detection is crucial. Information campaigns on how to identify suspicious e-mails or fraudulent SMS messages train aware users and give the first line of defense against cyber attacks.

Future Trends in Online Security

It is impossible to falsify The future will not consider artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing role in cyber security. Algorithms capable of detecting unusual patterns can help identify fraudulent activities more quickly, so that they materialize. Além disso, biometrics continues to evolve, which can lead to secure authentication on unprecedented levels. AI offers a high level of security due to its decentralized and immutable nature. The most conventional applications have been mainly in financial environments; However, we can imagine a future where each transaction is recorded and verified without the need of traditional intermediaries.