October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! To celebrate its 20th year, every Monday we will be sharing some of our favorite tips on our Facebook page to help you prioritize your online safety at work, home, and day to day life. Cybersecurity is a collective effort, and by adopting daily habits we can all become #cybersmart!
To kick things off, here are our Top 4 Cybersecurity Tips:
Use Strong Passwords and a Password Manager: With the burden of remembering multiple passwords, it may be enticing to reuse the same password on multiple sites. Overcome password fatigue by using a reliable password manager to securely store and manage your credentials. Always protect your accounts by using strong, unique passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. And most importantly - avoid using personal information or a single, simple word as your password.
Turn on Multifactor Authentication (MFA): MFA is an authentication method that requires you to provide two or more distinct forms of identification before granting access to an account. It can come in 3 different forms: knowledge (a password or PIN), possession (a badge or smartphone), or inherence (fingerprint or voice recognition). Boost your online security by enabling MFA wherever possible for an extra layer of protection.
Recognize and Report Phishing: Be wary of unsolicited messages, especially if they ask for personal information, passwords, or financial details. Use the SLAM method to help you recognize potential phishing emails: verify the Sender, check for broken Links, don't open unsolicited Attachments, and read the Message to check for inconsistencies.
Update Software: Keep all of your devices up to date with the latest firmware and software patches. And don't forget to update your applications as well - especially your web browsers. Manufacturers often release updates to fix security vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security of their devices. Turning on automatic updates ensures that these important improvements don't get missed.
Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that rests on the shoulders of every individual who uses digital technology. By staying informed, practicing good cyber hygiene, and supporting initiatives that promote a safer digital world, we can collectively fortify our defenses against cyber threats.
Follow us on Facebook for more cybersecurity tips each Monday, and to stay up to date on what's new and changing in technology!