Here are some expert tips to help you stay secure online during Cybersecurity Awareness Month:
Pro Tips for Cybersecurity:
- Face Scans and Fingerprints Are More Secure Than Passcodes: Whenever possible, use biometric features like Face ID or fingerprint scans on your devices. These options are more secure than passcodes, and modern devices are equipped with strong protections for storing this sensitive data.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA on all your accounts for an extra layer of protection. If secure methods like authenticator apps or hardware security keys aren’t available, use your phone number—it’s better than nothing. If you activate MFA for just one account, make it your email, which is a top target for cybercriminals.
- Think Twice Before Sharing Publicly: Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Cybercriminals can use details like your first car or birthplace—often shared in fun social media surveys—to impersonate you and gain access to your accounts.
- You Don’t Always Need to Keep the App: Instead of downloading apps, consider using the website version of a service. Apps tend to collect more data, including your location and contact list. If you do install an app, think about deleting it when you’re done—you can always reinstall it later.
- Stick to Trusted App Stores: Only download apps from reputable app stores like Google Play, Apple’s App Store, or Samsung’s Galaxy Store. Apps from unofficial stores or websites may pose security risks. If the app isn’t available in the official store, use the developer’s official site or the web version instead.
- Watch Out for Suspicious Emails and Texts: Phishing remains a common tactic for cybercriminals. If you receive an unexpected email or text, don’t open attachments or click on links. If the message seems legitimate, verify it by contacting the organization directly.
- Question Urgency in Emails and Calls: Scammers often pressure you to act quickly. If you’re contacted by someone claiming to be from a trusted source like your bank or the police, don’t panic. Independently verify the request by contacting the organization directly.
- Practice Good Password Security: Use unique, complex passwords for each account, with at least 12 characters that include numbers, letters, and punctuation. Avoid personal information in passwords and consider using a password manager to keep track of them.
- Keep Software and Devices Updated: Regularly update all your apps and devices, and ensure you have security software installed on all of them, including Macs.
- Replace Outdated Devices and Software: Devices like Wi-Fi routers and operating systems need to be replaced when they are no longer supported with security patches. Using outdated hardware leaves you vulnerable to attacks.
- Back Up Your Data: Even if ransomware groups mainly target businesses, it’s still important to back up your personal data to avoid losing it in case of an attack.
What You Don’t Need to Worry About:
- Public Wi-Fi Is Safer Than You Think: Thanks to encryption used by most websites and apps, public Wi-Fi is generally safe. Feel free to use it at airports and coffee shops, but avoid accessing sensitive information.
- Don’t Fall for Fearmongering About New Tech: Not all new tech features pose high risks. For example, Apple’s NameDrop feature is safe under normal conditions, but you can turn it off if you’re concerned.
- Public Chargers Are Not a Big Threat: The risk of “juice jacking” (data theft from public charging stations) is minimal, so you can use public chargers without worry. Focus on more significant threats instead.
