Blog with a Neighbor

Cybersecurity – what is it and how does it apply to you?

That’s a great question, Neighbor, and we’re so glad you asked!

First and foremost, cybersecurity is defined as; “the practice of protecting devices, programs, networks, and data from any unauthorized access and/or criminal activity.” The unauthorized access and criminal activity is known as a cyber-attack.

Secondly, in the connected world we live in today; EVERYONE utilizes computers, multiple networks, the cloud, smartphones, and additional smart devices daily. All these entities are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, and by extension, the users of these devices are the main target. Individuals and organizations must have a system in place to not only protect them from cyber-attacks but also, detect and respond to cyber-attacks.

What does a cyber-attack look like?

Individuals can experience cyber-attacks like loss of photos, identity theft, or even extortion attempts. Organizations can also experience extortion attempts and identity theft cyber-attacks; but they are also vulnerable to cyber-attacks that delete company files, disable security settings, and more specific attacks that steal the customer's private information, known as data breaches.

How do I prevent cyber-attacks?

• Don’t debate, UPDATE.
  • Software updates can include important security patches that are essential to your device. They may not always happen at the most convenient times, but it is important to make the time to update the software on all your devices. If you haven’t already, set up your devices to update automatically to ensure you don’t miss an update.

• Stay aware of phone, email, and text scams.
  • Always remember, ‘familiarity is your friend’ and ‘don’t get click happy.’ If you’re unsure of who the email, phone call, or text message came from – verify.
  • If it’s a phone call, ask very specific questions that only that individual or company should know. Do not provide any personal information until you have verified the caller.
  • If you receive an unfamiliar email or text message; do not click any links or reply without verifying the sender. If the email or text message is from a company asking you to input any information, go directly to the website instead of clicking the link in the email or text message.

• Keep your passwords strong.
  • Use complex, unique passwords for each password, and do not use the same password for multiple devices or accounts.
  • Be sure to use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters with special characters, like !, #, $, or %.
  • Password managers can help you create and store these passwords securely. 

• Don’t use public Wi-Fi.
  • As much as you may enjoy an afternoon at a coffee shop utilizing free Wi-Fi, it is a popular way for hackers to attack your device.
  •  If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive accounts or sharing personal information.

• Too much information?
  • When sharing on the internet, know the meaning of too much information. Never share when you will or will not be home, when you’re going on vacation, or children’s birthdays.
  • Be aware of information that is particularly “valuable” to cybercriminals like your birth date, address, and full name.

• Take Two
  • Always use two-step verification when available. This adds an extra layer of security to your devices by requiring two forms of proof that you are who you say you are.

Protecting your personal information is essential to your everyday life, and implementing the tips above can help you stay protected. Stay cybersafe, Neighbors!