Twenty years ago, overly worrying about your data might have labeled you as paranoid. A lot has changed since then, including the prevalence and sheer scale of data breaches that barely seem to leave the headlines. What’s the best cure for data security-related stress? A proactive defense! Follow our seven proven cybersecurity steps and start sleeping more soundly.
1.Up Your Password Game
Login credentials are among the most common info data breaches expose. You can’t affect the companies you have accounts with, but you can prevent the damage from such incidents from spreading like wildfire. One unique, tough-to-crack password per account ensures minimal compromises when you’re not in control.
Password managers are the most comprehensive and convenient solution. They can set you up with complex passwords that take lifetimes to decipher. You can generate new passwords and replace an entire set of old ones at once, further cementing their security.
2.Follow It Up with 2FA
Two-factor authentication is the ideal follow-up to strong passwords. They go hand in hand so well that competent password managers include them as a core feature. 2FA is a measure that prevents access to compromised accounts. It adds another requirement for successful logins.
The most common are text messages and revolving combinations you get from authenticator apps.
3.Keep Your Devices Secure Physically
Cybercriminals have pulled off some impressively sophisticated attacks in the past. However, it doesn’t take a genius to peer over your shoulder while you’re putting your CC info in. Don’t perform sensitive actions like online shopping or sending over confidential files if your screen is exposed. Find someplace more private, or get a screen protector.
Additionally, take the time to set up several protective measures. Buy a Kensington lock to keep your laptop in place, and lock your smartphone behind as long a combination as it allows.
4.And Digitally
Theft is a relatively rare worst-case scenario. You’re more likely to fall victim to the latest malware or operating system exploit. That’s why keeping your security software updated and using trusted alternatives to the defaults is a good idea. Having top-of-the-line anti-malware won’t stop the threats. It will identify, quarantine, and dispose of them, though.
5.Back Up Your Data
Having only one copy is among the worst data security oversights you could commit. What if your laptop gets stolen or a flood wrecks your company’s servers? You’ll want to follow the 3-2-1 strategy for your most important files. That means having three copies on two medium types, with one of the copies being off-site.
Cloud storage has emerged as the best data backup solution for people, SMBs, and multinational corporations. They satisfy the different media & off-site requirements. Plus, secure cloud storage comes with government-grade encryption standards that make getting to the actual contents of your files impossible.
Updating backups is easy and quick if you have a decent internet connection. Moreover, you pay little for as much space as you need. It scales with growing needs, too, which makes cloud storage great for burgeoning businesses.
6.Work on Your Scam Sense
Determined fraudsters won’t hesitate to exploit the gullible and unprepared. Some might lure you in with fabulous prizes or job opportunities. Others pose as romantic interests or pray upon your generosity in times of crisis. It’s essential to know how to spot such attempts and steer clear.
The above usually happens on social media sites, while phishing has the most success via email. Some attempts are laughably bad. Conversely, some criminals approach their targets after a lot of research and create convincing emails that can throw off even seasoned users. Learn to recognize signs like urgency or weird-sounding sentences, and reach out to the real sender if you’re in doubt.
7.Keep a Low Profile
People give out far too much personal info online voluntarily without realizing it. An off-handed comment about your spaniel or a picture of your front lawn can be enough info for someone to guess an answer to your security questions or figure your address out.
Keep such information between you and your trusted inner circle. Some information can be removed if you follow the opt-out guides, yet loads of the things, once shared, may stay on the internet forever. All in all, the smaller your online footprint, the less likely bad actors will be in obtaining your other data. So think before you share, and remember to use the measures we suggested.
