Implementing strong cyber security measures on your devices and accounts is essential to safeguarding your information.
Laptops, Computers, Phones, and Tablets.
These devices are prime targets for attackers because they store large amounts of personal, financial, and sensitive information.
Safety Tips for Individuals
- Prevent device loss or theft because stolen devices can reveal sensitive data if they were not properly secured with strong passwords or encryption.
- Choose strong passwords with at least 8 characters and make those characters a random combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters (e.g., !, $, or #).
- Use antivirus software because devices can be infected with malware from sources such as malicious files and phishing links. Install antivirus software and update it regularly to detect and remove any malicious programs on the device.
- Enable your device firewall because devices are often exposed to unsecured Wi-Fi networks which allow attackers to see and intercept internet traffic.
- Use a reliable, trusted virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
- Keep application software updated, old versions of software may leave the device vulnerable to known security flaws. Regularly update the device’s operating system, applications, and browser plug-ins to minimize this risk.
- Review the permissions you are granting an app because some request excessive permissions to access more data than necessary on the device (e.g., location, contacts, photos) which can compromise privacy and security by exposing personal information to third parties.
- Avoid modifying devices, using non-original equipment parts may expose devices to malicious firmware.
- Only install software from trusted sources because they have security measures to detect and remove malicious apps.
- Avoid using flash drives from untrusted sources (including ones given out at conferences).
- Use data encryption to protect files and folders from unauthorized access by scrambling the data. Only those authorized can unscramble it. Most operating systems offer built-in encryption features.
- Activate “Find My iPhone” (iOS) or “Find My Device” (Android) features to locate your device and remotely wipe any data from your device in case it is lost or stolen.
- Avoid paring a Bluetooth low energy device with your phone in public because data could be intercepted by people nearby.
Safety Tips for Organizations
- Audit devices connected to the organization’s network routinely to identify potential vulnerabilities or unauthorized devices.
- Make device protection mandatory, the use of antivirus, and firewall solutions should be required on all organizational devices to help prevent viruses, ransomware, and other malicious attacks.
System Updates
Regular system updates help fix security vulnerabilities and improve device performance. Failure to update software and systems regularly may lead to non-compliance with regulatory standards and legal requirements in some workplaces. This may result in fines, legal liabilities, and damage to an organization’s reputation.
Safety Tips for Individuals
- Turn on automatic system updates to get the latest security fixes to known vulnerabilities.
- Regularly check for updates, and set reminders, if necessary, especially for less frequently used software and applications.
- Remember to update all devices that connect to the Internet, including computers, smartphones and tablets. Each device represents a potential entry point for cyber attackers.
Safety Tips for Organizations
- Create a patch management policy for managing system updates, to ensure that all software, operating systems, and applications are regularly reviewed and updated.
- Keep legacy devices updated to prevent aging devices from becoming security liabilities. If updating is not possible, consider phasing out old systems and replacing them with newer, more secure alternatives.