October has been Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and after spending time reviewing my own security, I wanted to stop and share why allocating time to protect your digital lives is essential.
Online safety is paramount, with so many online scams out there, so I want to share some good practices and explain how to implement some security measures of your own.
Cyber threats constantly evolve, and staying vigilant is critical to safeguarding personal and business data.
To help you enhance your online security, I’ve noted a few points you can use to strengthen your defences.
Four simple but powerful steps to stay secure online:
- Recognize Phishing Attacks
Phishing is a common cyber threat designed to steal sensitive information (like credit card numbers, login credentials, and more) by posing as a trustworthy source. Scams may come in emails, texts, or even as calls.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the signs of phishing – such as urgent messages, suspicious links, or requests for personal info.
Take the time to check your accounts and statements if you get a notification that doesn’t seem right. When via email, I often see a jumble of letters and numbers as the sender instead of a business email. Another occasion I have picked up on. A text message notices for tolls, as a result, I logged into my toll account to check to find the text was a scam.
If it doesn’t feel right, your first reaction should be to not click any links and check your actual accounts to verify the information.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Creating complex, unique passwords is your first line of defence. You should opt for a combination of upper and lowercase letters, special characters, numbers, and memorable passphrases.
I use LastPass, which has a password generator to help you craft and securely store these passwords, along with 2-factor authentication. Another app I have used that is simple is Bitwarden.
Tip: Regularly update your passwords and use a reliable password manager to keep them organised and protected. As mentioned, I have used LastPass and Bitwarden, but do some research and find one you’re comfortable with.
- Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2-Factor authentication (2FA) is a must-have for additional security. This feature requires you to verify your identity using multiple methods (e.g., one-time codes, fingerprints, or security questions), making it more challenging for unauthorised access.
Tip: Take a few minutes to turn on this extra authentication for your key accounts – it’s an easy way to add a significant layer of security. You can receive a text message or use an authenticator app on your phone.
- Keep Software Updated
Outdated software can create security vulnerabilities, making it essential to keep all devices current. Many systems offer automatic updates, which are a convenient way to stay current.
Tip: Set up automatic updates where possible and do a monthly manual check to ensure your software is always running its latest version.
It can be as simple as following these steps to help protect you from common cyber threats, giving you peace of mind as you focus on what matters most.