Cybersecurity seems like an intimidating word, it can feel unfamiliar and for many people is filled with unknowns. All too often people neglect their cybersecurity because see it as complex and inaccessible. However, cybersecurity is simpler than you might think.
All it really means is actions that you can take to protect your systems, devices, or networks from any type of cyberattacks. It can be as simple as turning off your location service for certain apps, or as complex as installing security software to protect your business against the latest attacks.
It can really be as easy as implementing small changes to your lifestyle and activities to keep your information more secure. Cybersecurity is accessible to anyone at any level or stage, from everyday people to business owners, it is always important to implement good cybersecurity practices.
Why is cybersecurity important?
In our digital age, technological devices often feel as though they are an extension of our lives. Cellphones, laptops, and other devices play an integral role in our daily activities. All of these machines carry a wealth of sensitive and personal information, which makes them ideal targets for cybercriminals. Leaks in data or stores of sensitive information can lead to identity theft, stolen credit cards, and ransom threats.
Especially in recent years, cybercrime has been on the rise. In the past year and a half, many of us have had to transition our lives online and cybercriminals took advantage of this shift. Cybercrime has skyrocketed and is only continuing to grow, becoming more complex and sophisticated.
Engaging in proper cybersecurity practices is important because it helps to keep your sensitive information safe and secure. Implementing preventative cybersecurity measures is easier than you think and can save you so much time and money. Regardless of if you are an individual or a small business, cybersecurity is always relevant and important. We have compiled some easy tips that you can implement in your life today to help improve your overall security.
5 Ways To Improve Your Cybersecurity Today
1. Password Management
Passwords are your first layer of defense against cybercriminals and all of your accounts should have strong and unique passwords. It is important to enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication whenever possible. When you access your account with only your password, that is one-factor authentication. To increase the security of your accounts, it is beneficial to layer them with two-factor or multi-factor level authentication. Adding this layer of security will help to lower your risk of a security breach.
If you are struggling with generating and maintaining your passwords securely, try out a trusted password management tool such as LastPass. (Read an article on passwords)
2. Dark Web Scans
Try Cyber Unit’s free Dark Web scan to see if you have any compromised credentials or sensitive data on the dark web. This is the first step to securing your sensitive data. A Dark Web scan will let you know if your important information is out there so you can change passwords, notify your bank, clients, and more.
3. Data Backups
Malicious attacks or breaches can cause your data to disappear at the click of a button. Regularly backing up your data will help you if a breach does occur because you will still have access to your private and sensitive information.
Ensure that you are storing your data backups on alternate systems with copies stored offsite and maintain a regular backup routine. Be sure to also test your backups regularly.
4. Updates and Patching
Cybercriminals are constantly working to find new points of entry into commonly used systems. Always update your software and hardware as soon as new updates become available.
Often, software updates help to fix important bug issues and security gaps. It is important to update your devices to prevent cybercriminals from exploiting pre-existing vulnerabilities.
5. Be Aware of Phishing Scams
Phishing is an online scam where cyber criminals impersonate legitimate organizations in an attempt to gain access to your information. Phishing can take many forms, but the most common phishing scams are conducted through email, text messages, phone calls, or advertisements.
It is important to educate yourself on how to spot common phishing scams and avoid falling prey to them. Click here for more information on phishing and how to avoid it.
Learn More
Check out Cyber Unit services
Read this article My Site Was Hacked It Can Happen To You Too
