I considered this issue as I noticed breaking and alarming news scrolling by.

“Supreme Court Youtube Channel Hacked!”

Hackers show Ripple Crypto content on the Supreme Court’s official YouTube channel.

The “official YouTube channel of the Supreme Court of India” has been hacked, and the channel has been renamed Ripple and is now showcasing cryptocurrency-related videos rather than Supreme Court legal information.

As a layman, you should have a lot of doubts about this activity.

If India’s highest judicial authority is under attack, what will it mean for the average citizen?

At this point, we should seriously examine the essential YouTube security tips to protect your account.

Supreme Court Youtube Channel Hacked

The news is not phoney. It is true that the name of India’s Supreme Court YouTube channel was changed to Ripple rather than the Supreme Court of India.

The hack has prompted worries about the internet security of government digital assets, and efforts are being made to restore the channel and its original contents. Meanwhile, authorities are investigating the hack to identify those responsible.

A few years back, the Supreme Court took a decision to livestream the proceedings of important cases before the Constitution Bench. Livestream includes hearings on cases of national importance, such as disputes on the interpretation of the Constitution, issues affecting civil rights, electoral reforms, and other matters of public interest. 

Recently, the channel was broadcasting the updates related to the Suo Motu case concerning the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital. But now, all prior videos had been changed to private and replaced by a live stream headlined “Brad Garlinghouse: Ripple Responds To The SEC’s $2 Billion Fine!” “XRP Price Prediction.”

This film, which promotes cryptocurrency-related information, has raised major questions about the security of the judiciary’s digital platforms.

Top 7 YouTube security tips to Outsmart Hackers

Hackers often use phishing tactics to compromise accounts, typically sending fake emails that appear to be from legitimate sources like YouTube or Google. If a user clicks on a link or any call-to-action in these emails, the hackers can gain control of their account.

To protect your YouTube account, it’s essential to follow these tips

Create Strong Password and Passkeys

This is a standout section in our YouTube security tips. A strong password should include symbols, uppercase letters, and a more random order.

The password must be strong, long, and difficult for someone else to guess.Passkeys are a simple and secure alternative to passwords.

With a passkey, you can sign in to your account with your fingerprint, face scan, or phone screen lock, like a PIN.

Security keys and passkeys are stronger verification options because they help prevent phishing techniques that use text message codes.

Keep your accounts secured through 2-Step Verification

2-Step Verification provides double protection for your account. This process requires a second form of verification, such as a constantly changing code from an app on your phone, making it significantly harder for hackers to gain access.

2-Step Verification helps prevent unauthorised access, even if someone steals your password. You can choose from several options: security keys, Google Prompts, Google Authenticator, and phone verification codes.

  1. Beware of fake sponsorship offers

Phishers could send phoney sponsorship emails with malicious attachments. Avoid accepting implausible sponsorship offers, and before opening any attachments, confirm the sender’s identity. Use email filtering software to help you spot and stop questionable emails.

Don’t accept every offer. A portion of them are fraudulent. I am aware that selecting the correct one can be challenging. However, you can safeguard your account in some effective ways. They merely want your money and personal information, but they also offer attractive sponsorship or advertising arrangements.

There is another possibility that they will use you for promotion without paying you.

Be cautious with 3rd party apps and plugins

Third-party programs and plugins should not be granted unneeded permissions. Some programs may request access to your YouTube account for a variety of reasons, some genuine, and others dangerous. Review and revoke access to any apps or services that you no longer use or trust.

Yes, it is crucial to exercise caution while using third-party programs and plugins to avoid hijacking your YouTube account, as some may be dangerous. Here are some strategies for protecting your YouTube account.

  1. Allow third-party programs and plugins only the permissions they require. Some apps may request access to your YouTube account for a variety of reasons; some may be dangerous.
  2. Review and revoke access to any apps or services that you no longer use or trust.

Monitor your channel for suspicious messages and content

Check your channel on a regular basis for unauthorised changes or questionable activities, such as unexpected video uploads or channel settings changes. If you discover anything out of the norm, take urgent action to safeguard your channel and prevent future unauthorised access.

Phishing and malware

Phishing attacks are a prevalent method used by hackers to deceive people into disclosing their login information. Be vigilant of emails or texts requesting your login details, especially if they include questionable links or attachments. Always check the sender’s authenticity before clicking on any links or disclosing any important information. If in doubt, contact the sender immediately via a verified means to confirm the request.

Limit access to your channel, Set and review permission on you YouTube channel

If you’ve delegated your channel to an agency or team, be certain that their devices are secure and not compromised. Limit access to your channel to just those who absolutely require it. Furthermore, evaluate the list of individuals that have access to your channel on a regular basis and deactivate any accounts that are no longer needed.

Top Signs Your YouTube Account May Be Hacked

  1. Unable to Sign In to Your Account: If you’re suddenly locked out, it could mean trouble.
  2. Unexpected Changes: Account Settings and Email Address Altered Without Your Knowledge. Keep an eye out for any modifications you didn’t make.
  3. Profile Picture Changed: A new profile pic might signal unauthorised access.
  4. Strange Uploads: Videos Uploaded to Your Channel That You Did Not Upload Yourself If you see unfamiliar content, it’s time to investigate!

Mystery Comments: Comments Appeared That You Did Not Send
Unrecognised comments could mean your account is being misused.

How can recover a hacked YouTube account

If you have access in your YouTube account
  1. Open your account
  2. Select security
  3. Click Signing into Google
  4. Select password and enter a new strong password and 
  5. click on change password.

Hackers currently using your YouTube account should now be expelled and prompted to sign back in. When they try to do so, they won’t know your new password.

If you can’t access into your YouTube account
  1. Navigate to the Google Account Recovery page.
  2. Enter the email address linked with your account. Select the email address you want to use for authentication.
  3. Once you receive the verification code, which will be emailed to your backup email, enter it to authenticate your identity.
  4. When prompted, enter and confirm your new Google account password. 

Conclusion

If you find yourself locked out of your YouTube account, don’t panic! Following the recovery steps diligently can help you regain access and secure your channel. Remember, a strong password and vigilant monitoring are essential to protect your digital presence, so don’t overlook the YouTube security tips discussed above.

At Techbound Innovations, a leading digital marketing agency in Trivandrum, Kerala, we understand the importance of online security. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of digital platforms and ensure your brand remains safe and thriving.

Let us partner with you to elevate your online presence while safeguarding your accounts. Stay secure and stay connected!