23 Sep
In today’s digital age, our lives are increasingly intertwined with technology. From online banking to social media, we rely on various digital platforms for convenience and connectivity. However, this growing reliance also exposes us to potential threats, such as data breaches, identity theft and phishing scams.
As we observe Cybersecurity Awareness Month, is crucial to prioritize our online safety and take proactive steps to protect our personal information.
Passwords
Use unique, strong passwords for all your accounts. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple sites. A strong password should be 12 to 16 characters and include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager and enabling multifactor authentication whenever possible.
Multifactor authentication
Multifactor authentication requires you to provide two forms of identification before accessing your account. This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for unauthorized users to gain access. Enable this option whenever available, especially on your most sensitive accounts.
Use secure Wi-Fi
Unsecured Wi-Fi networks could cause your data to be intercepted and used for malicious purposes, such as phishing scams or identity theft. If public Wi-Fi is your only option, use a virtual private network (VPN) that will encrypt your internet traffic and route all data through a secure server, making it difficult for hackers to intercept any of your data.
Beware of phishing scams
Phishing attempts aim to trick you into giving up sensitive information, like passwords, credit cards details or personal data. Be cautious of any unsolicited emails or messages, especially those with links or attachments. Avoid clicking on links from unknown senders and hover over those links to verify it is an actual URL.
Mobile security
Avoid easy-to-guess PINs or patterns. Use PINs that are at least six digits long. When downloading apps, stick to official app stores like Google Play or Apple’s App Store, as unknown sources may contain malware.
Software updates
Enable automatic updates for your device’s operating system and security software. Check monthly to ensure your OS is up to date, and back up your data before updating.
Talk with your kids
Discuss safe internet practices with your kids. Talk about recognizing suspicious messages, responsible online behavior, and the importance of privacy settings.
For additional resources on how you can keep your life secure, check out the links below.
Secure Yourself & Your Family | CISA
Keeping Children Safe Online | CISA