In our daily digital-first world, security in a cyber-everything landscape is everyone’s problem, not just the IT department of a large organization. Any individual using the internet to conduct daily activities, or any organization handling people’s data, need to be concerned about security and potentially unwanted behaviours online.
Cybersecurity (or cyber security) means the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from cyber-attacks. Oftentimes, cyber-attacks (cyber-attacks or cyber intrusion) seek to access, change, or destroy sensitive information. These attacks can, and do, use extortion to obtain money or to impede an organization from continuing normal operations altogether.
This blog discusses the basic cybersecurity practices that can be used to protect yourself or your organization from cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
1. Create strong and unique passwords
Weak or reused passwords are one of the most commonly exploited vulnerabilities. A strong password should include upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. A strong password should not include identifiable information such as personal names or dates of birth. Strong passwords should not be reused on different accounts.
The use of a password manager helps create and securely store complex passwords.
2 Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication adds an additional layer of security beyond a username and password. With 2FA activated, logging in requires a piece of information you know (password) and a piece of information you have (such as a code sent to your phone). This drastically increases the difficulty of an attacker that steals your password gaining access to your account.
3 .Update Software and Operating Systems
Many outdated programs and software have known vulnerabilities that can expose your organization to attacks from malicious actors. Ensure your operating systems, web browser, applications, and antivirus are kept updated regularly. The majority of software vendors provide patches that close known security gaps, so applying these patches in a timely manner is an easy way to strengthen your defences.
4. Beware of Emails and Links
Phishing is one of the most prevalent and aggressive cyber threats in existence. These attacks will often take the form of emails or messages that attempt to lure users into revealing personal information or clicking nefarious links.
Always verify the email address of the sender, don’t open unsolicited attachments, and never click on any suspicious links. If in doubt, contact the organization directly using an official source (like the website of the institution).
5. Be Careful of Emails and Links
Phishing is one of the most prevalent cyber-attacks. Phishing attacks use emails or messages to trick users to share sensitive information or click on harmful links. Always check the sender’s email address, don’t download unexpected attachments, and be careful clicking on links. If you suspect something is untrustworthy, contact the organization directly through legitimate means.
6. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Your home or office Wi-Fi connection is your first line of defence. Change the default password on your router, choose WPA3 or WPA2 encryption, and hide the network SSID. You should also avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks unless using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
7. Back-up Data Frequently
Loss of data due to malware or accidental deletion is often a final loss. By frequently backing-up important files to an external hard drive or secure cloud storage, you will have a way to recover your data in the event of an attack of data breach or failure of hardware. Automated backups are lowhassle and provide you peace of mind rather than compatibility on remembering to do so.
8. Have Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
If you use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software, your chances of being attacked are significantly lower, as these types of software are able to recognize thousands of harmful programs. Antivirus and anti-malware software consistently scan files and websites for malware threats, and notify you of any suspicious activity.
9. Apply Safe Browsing
Do not download software from unreliable websites and ignore pop-ups to install plugins or upgrade software. Before you enter sensitive information, make sure the website is prefixed “https” in the website URL. Safe browsing instincts help you to lower the chances of accidentally downloading unsafe content.
Conclusions
Cybersecurity is no longer optional, but a necessity against protecting personal and professional equipment. By adopting basic practices such as strong passwords, software updates, 2FA, safe browsing and keeping a backup of your data, both individuals and businesses can mitigate their exposure to cyber risks. Together, these practices may feel like small actions, but they are a place to start an effective secure digital footprint.
Proactive Cybersecurity isn’t so much about eliminating cybersecurity risks, it is about an effective approach to managing risk. As our security threats evolve over time, simply keeping current with developments and updating first steps actions will ensure safer steps towards securing our locations in a connected world.
