Four Cyber Security Tips You Need To Know

This month, we are sharing four things you should do right now to protect your digital self.

This year, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is calling for the general public to “See Yourself in Cyber.” The mission is to help individuals protect themselves online as threats to technology and confidential data become more commonplace. We are working together to make smart decisions on the job, at home, and at school to become more cyber-aware.

Step 1: Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multifactor authentication is a login process to make it more difficult for an unauthorized person to access your accounts. It requires two or more independent credentials, such as something you know, a password, and something you have, like your mobile phone. Before a login is complete, a code is sent to your mobile device and requires you to input the code, thus proving you have access to the registered device. This additional layer of security makes it exponentially more difficult for the bad guys to access your personal information and accounts. 

Step 2: Use Strong Passwords

Passwords are quite literally the key to your personal information. The problem is that criminals are intent on discovering your passwords, even using sophisticated technology to try to “crack” the code. The best way to ensure your account is difficult to crack is to have a complex password (i.e. upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols) that does not include things like your name, your date of birth, or the word “password.”

Step 3: Recognize and Report Phishing

It can be hard to tell if you are the victim of a phishing scam until it’s too late. The Federal Trade Commission offers some examples of the types of emails and text messages that you should look at with a critical eye before taking any action, including:

• Messages that say they’ve noticed suspicious activity or log-in attempts on your online accounts
• An email claims that there’s a problem with your account or your payment information
• A message that says you must confirm personal information
• Any message that includes a fake invoice or other document
• A request to click on a link to make a payment
• Messages that say you’re eligible to register for a government refund

Step 4: Use Biometric & Passwords to Protect your Devices & Keep Software Up to Date

Computers, tablets, and phones can open the door to large amounts of personal information including our online activities, credentials for logins, and banking and financial information. Make sure you frequently update software on your phone, tablets, and computer to help keep your personal data secure. 

*Content provided by NXG Strategies