Security is essential for bussiness and individuals. Personal information, financial data, and company secrets are all at risk if security measures are not in place. In the past, cybercriminals have used social engineering and malware to exploit weak points in systems; however, as technology advances, so do the methods of attack, as read in Guardio blog. Here are some tips on how you can keep your devices safe from cyber threats:
Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
This is one of the most basic but important security measures you can take. Make sure all your accounts have strong passwords that are difficult to guess. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, before allowing access to an account.
Keep your software up to date
One of the most common ways cybercriminals gain access to systems is by exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software. By keeping your software up to date, you can close these gaps and make it more difficult for attackers to get through. One example was the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 that took advantage of a flaw in Microsoft Windows.
Use a VPN
A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a secure server, making it much harder for hackers to intercept your data. This is especially important if you’re using public Wi-Fi networks. Also, don’t use a free VPN – they have been known to sell user data.
Back up your data
One of the first things a ransomware attacker will do is attempt to encrypt or delete your backups. That’s why it’s important to have multiple backups in different locations so that even if one is compromised, you still have others to fall back on.
Browser extension and add-ons
These can help improve your security by blocking malicious websites, ads, and pop-ups. They can also give you warnings if a website you’re visiting is not secure. There are many on the market, you should look for one that meet your requirements.
Educate yourself and your employees
Make sure you and your employees are aware of the latest cyber threats and how to avoid them. This includes being careful about what information you share online and not clicking on links from unknown sources.
Be aware of malicious websites
When surfing the web always be wary of malicious websites. These are sites that are designed to trick you into giving up your personal information or downloading malware.
Don’t share personal information on social media
This includes things like your address, phone number, birth date, and credit card information. Even if your privacy settings are set to “friends only,” it’s still possible for this information to get into the wrong hands. Cybercrime is a real threat to businesses and individuals alike. By following the tips above, you can help protect yourself and your business from becoming a victim of cybercrime. If you have any questions about cybersecurity or would like more information on how to keep your devices safe, please contact us. We would be happy to help!
