October 25, 2024
Source: Center For Internet Security (www.cisecurity.org)
Cybersecurity is essential in today’s digital age as it protects sensitive data, systems, and networks from cyber threats. As we increasingly rely on technology for everything from personal communication to critical infrastructure, cybersecurity helps safeguard against risks such as data breaches, identity theft, and financial loss. Here are 11 tips to make your work and home environment safer, from the Center For Internet Security.
Tip 1: Set Some Cyber Defense Priorities
Consider the following questions to begin formulating a cybersecurity roadmap that works for you:
- What are your cybersecurity and cyber defense goals?
- Have you identified which devices and data you want to protect?
- What level of security do they need?
Tip 2: Think Before You Click
Hover over a link to reveal the destination URL. If it looks different from the hyperlinked text, don’t click on it.
Tip 3: Don’t Get Phished
Phishing attacks often use a sense of urgency to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an email attachment. Don’t fall for it. Forward any suspicious message to your IT and/or your security department at work. If you receive a suspicious email on your personal device, delete it and consider blocking the domain.
Tip 4: Go Beyond the Password
Cyber threat actors easily crack “password”, “admin”, and other dictionary-based passwords. For stronger account security, protect your accounts with a biometric passcode or a unique alphanumeric passphrase with symbols.
Tip 5: If It Matters, Use Multi-Factor
Protect your accounts with authentication methods from at least two of the following categories:
- Something you know: A passphrase or swipe pattern
- Something you are: Biometrics, fingerprint
- Something you have: An authentication app on your phone or an ID badge.
At a minimum, use two-factor authentication (2FA) for accounts and devices that handle sensitive data.
Tip 6: Keep It Fresh
Always install the latest updates for your operating system, browser, and any applications installed on your device. Cyber threat actors (CTAs) try to use known vulnerabilities to access your devices and/or other devices that are connected to the same network. Don’t let yourself (or your organization) become an easy target.
Tip 7: Reflect, Then Connect
Before connecting to a public or unfamiliar Wi-Fi network, use a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN creates an encrypted, private web connection, thus minimizing the risk of data exposure.
Tip 8: Shop Smart, Shop Secure
Protect sensitive banking data by only shopping on sites you trust. Never save your card information where it could be stolen and used later. Also, make sure to monitor your payment card records for unfamiliar charges.
Tip 9: Avoid Configuration Confusion
Securely configure your computer, printer, smartphone, and other web-connected devices in your home and in your office. That way, you’ll protect each of your devices with the strongest security settings possible.
Tip 10: Don’t Be the Bully
When online, remember to be thoughtful and to use polite language. Sharing someone’s private personal information online, also known as “doxxing”, is never okay and may get you in legal trouble.
Tip 11: Charge with Caution
Don’t plug your mobile devices into any unfamiliar outlet to avoid a possible juicejacking attack. If you’re worried about running out of battery, bring a backup power bank or charge your device using your own charging cable and wall outlet.