Read time: 3 min 21 sec
Let’s address an issue that is now as integral as the necessity to lock one’s front door before going to sleep: Cybersecurity. Do not fret; you don’t have to be a tech genius to secure your presence in the cyber world. There are a few steps that a layman can also take.
Strong Passwords
Remember being ever-so-comfortable with “password123”. Well, folks these times are no more. Complex passwords should be formulated and changed frequently. Here, a password manager comes in to save the day; it is like hiring a secretary who remembers everything for you.
Software Updates
No one wants to be bombarded with app update notifications on any device – it is pointless. Still, it appears that those update notifications are quite essential. For example, developers release updates to address some security issues within the software. All you need to do is click update, make yourself a cup of coffee, and all your concerns are out of the window.
Anti-Virus Protection
An effective compound also has good anti-virus software, which operates as a guard to the computer and offers protection against malicious programs such as malware and spy malware. Perform the scans when you have downtime from work and are watching a Netflix series – kill two birds with one stone!
Be Wary of Suspicious Emails
Who hasn’t received an email out of the blue from a “Nigerian prince” offering a million dollars? Be careful. You know the saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” When in doubt, delete!
Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Fools have thieves to steal their wireless connections. This will allow you to pick a password that is much more difficult to crack. It is a precaution and a step worth the trouble.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is relatively easy in principle. Consider 2FA as a door with an added security – a second lock. Anyone who manages to steal your password and gain access will still require another piece of information before entering your account. It is always better to be safe than to be sorry!
Cybersecurity in the Workplace
Let us now change the topic to your ordinary working hours. Cybersecurity while working is an entirely different aspect. Companies hold heaps of sensitive information, any leak, and it’s over. These are the ways to keep the workplace free of such occurrences:
Take Precautions While on the Internet
Avoid oversharing about yourself on social networks. A hacker could source a person’s details from many means. You may get a phishing email the next day immediately after posting something regarding work on social media – it happens all too often, I am afraid.
Abide by the IT Policy
Your company’s IT policies are not and should never be just pointless red tape because nothing that would ever cause harm to you and your company should be followed. Obey them.
Report Suspicious Actions or Activities
There is no harm in raising a flag for something that does not feel right. Please don’t be shy about using the IT help desk once because they sent you a suspicious email. It might be an attempt to phish you out.
Cybersecurity for Companies
Believing in cybersecurity is more than just an option if you are a business entity. This is why:
Strong Security System in Place
Think of firewalls and data encryption as the perimeter walls of one’s fortress. So much dependence is alright.
Employee Training
Frequently educating the workforce transforms them into powerful forces of cybersecurity. In any case, information is a strong advantage.
Incident Response Plan
Be sure there’s a contingency in case everything goes wrong. Making those calls and knowing the steps can save time and reduce the damage.
The Future of Cybersecurity
At present, it is rather embarrassing not to know some basic things on the subject of cybersecurity. Technological progress, however, brings along new cybersecurity encroachments. Advanced technology, such as AI and machine learning, is simultaneously a blessing and a curse. They help to anticipate and mitigate attacks, but the bad guys use them too. It’s a perpetual cat-and-mouse activity. To stay safe online, there are simple actions your business can perform.
Companies that do make certain investments into basic, solid, proper cyber security strategies not only safeguard the information, they also create confidence. If you feel slightly lost with all this overwhelming cybersecurity language, you’re not the only one. You do not need to handle this alone. BIT Insight Group helps businesses like yours to make IT simple and safe. It does not matter if you are looking for managed services, professional assistance, or expert consultation; we are here for you.
Are you prepared to advance in the cyber arena, taking IT and cybersecurity to a new level? Click here to get in touch with us and arrange a consultation with one of our qualified team members. Together, we can do magic and secure and ease your life online. A stitch in time saves nine.
Always be thoughtful, always be safe, and enjoy your surfing!
