Oct 21, 2022
You can secure your digital devices and systems with a bit of preparation. Secure your sensitive data and computer systems with a little knowledge, effort and time. Don't let cybersecurity intimidate you.
Losing unprotected data or having your identity stolen is far more expensive than a few minutes of research, preparation and action.
The National Cybersecurity Alliance offers a few tips to stay safe online, including:
- Maintaining a Clean Machine – Keep all your connected devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, up to date to prevent malware and ransomware.
- Using Long, Unique Passwords – Strong passwords have at least 12 characters and contain letters, numbers, and symbols. You should not use words or phrases as your password. Passwords for all your online accounts should be unique.
- Utilizing a Password Manager – Passwords shouldn't be kept in a notebook. The easiest, most secure way to manage unique passwords is with a password manager. Using a password manager can help you manage all your online credentials.
- Authenticating with Multi-Factor – Your key accounts are more secure with multi-factor authentication (MFA), also known as two-factor authentication. Using biometrics (such as fingerprints or face ID scanning), security keys or apps that send one-time codes are examples of multi-factor authentication.
- Thinking Before You Click – Where do cybercriminals get sensitive information? When you click on something you shouldn't, you make a mistake. Hackers can access sensitive data via malicious links in emails, tweets, text messages, social media posts, or advertising. Never click on links or download anything from a stranger or that you weren't expecting.
- Using Secure WiFi – If you use unsecured public wireless networks or hotspots, anyone can see what you're doing on your laptop or smartphone. Be careful what you do on public WiFi. When using public WiFi, avoid accessing email and financial services. Use a VPN or mobile hotspot for a more secure connection.
- Making Sure to Back Up – Regularly back up your work, music, photos and digital information. You can recover your data if your device is infected with ransomware, hacked or damaged.
- Verifying Your Privacy and Security Settings Regularly – Configure privacy and security settings whenever you create an account, download an app or get a new device. Check these settings regularly to make sure they are still comfortable. Delete apps, platforms, and games you no longer use every few months.
You can find more tips on protecting your business and yourself at Buckeye Community Bank's Security Awareness Hub bit.ly/buckeyesecurity or by visiting the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
