We clean our gutters; we put new filters in the furnace; we swap screens for storm windows, so let’s be just as safe and prepared with our home computers, laptops and tablets.
Today our home computers are central hubs for work, school, entertainment, banking, and more. This reliance on technology can expose us to cyber-risks. Here are three key steps to build and maintain your digital defenses and stay safe.
First Keep your software Up-To-Date
The simplest, most effective way to protect your digital devices is by keeping the software current.
- Operating System Updates: Whether you use, Windows, mac OS, or Linux, regularly install the latest security patches. It may take a few minutes, but it’s time well spent.
- Application Updates: Keep your web browsers, office suites, and other programs you depend on up-to-date.
- Antivirus software: Subscribe to antivirus protection software, keep it up-to-date, and allow automatic updates.
To close loopholes and frustrate cybercriminals trust the people who hunt for weaknesses and vulnerabilities and provide fixes and patches.
Second Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication
Passwords Are your first line of defense.
- Create complex passwords. Mix upper and lower case letters, use numbers and symbols.
- Use unique (and different) passwords for each account. If one account is breached others will be safe.
- Consider a password manager. These are tools/apps that cane generate and safely store complex passwords for you. If you are on vacation or just away from home, you won’t have that paper notebook with your passwords.
- Use two-factor authentication(2FA). This adds an extra layer of safety. What is it? When you enter your password, a second form of authentication is asked for. You will get either an email or text message with a code depending on what you chose when you created 2FA for the account.
‘Tis the season (soon) for online shopping.
Third Be cautious with email and be browsing
- Be skeptical of unsolicited emails. DO NOT click on links or download attachments for sources you do not know or recognize.
- Verify sender identities. Choose browsers with built-in security features. Consider using privacy-focused extension.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive (financial) transactions. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data.
These three key strategies will help you reduce your risk of phishing attempts, malware, hoaxes, and other cyber threats. Remember, cybersecurity is ongoing. Stay informed and adapt your digital defenses.