Basic Cybersecurity Practices People Should Follow

When you’re implementing basic cybersecurity practices, you’re not only helping to protect yourself, but also your family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. We will go over all the basic best practices in cybersecurity. But right now, however, I want to discuss the top 3 things that will statistically help keep you, and your loved ones secure.

Table of Contents

• The 3 Most Important Defenses
• Email Safety
• Internet Browsing
• Secure File Sharing and Data Protection
• Strong Passwords and Authentication
• Using Security Tools and Software
• Network and Device Security
• Cybersecurity Awareness and Training

The 3 Most Important Defenses

1. Strong Phishing Defenses:
   Help your friends and coworkers start to recognize phishing scams. This tactic accounted for over 90% of successful data breaches so far in 2024.(DataProt). Phishing attacks rely on human behavior and error to be successful. So doing things like hovering over a link before you click it to see the destination, could save you and your company from big time losses.
2. Regular Software Updates:
   Keeping software and hardware up-to-date is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity. When manufacturers release updates, they often include critical security improvements or patches alongside new features and bug fixes. The good news is most software has the option for automated updates.
   Since cybercriminals mostly venture into systems and code bases “There were 11.3 billion successful malicious intrusions in 2023.“(CloudWards), it’s most crucial to have up to date software and hardware.
3. Backups and Encryption:
   Performing regular backups and encrypting your data is one of the best ways to recover from ransomware. This type of attack is reported to happen every 14 seconds.(DataProt) A great way to recover from ransomware is to use the 3-2-1 system for your data. 3 copies, 2 of them on separate devices, 1 of them at an off-site location. This will make it easier to recover without having to pay a ransom.

Now that we’ve looked at the 3 most important defenses, lets continue on our path to cyber enlightenment.

Email Safety

Email use can open doors to numerous security issues if not handled carefully. A common problem is phishing scams—emails designed to trick you into providing personal information or downloading malicious software. These emails often look legitimate, mimicking reputable companies or even people you know. The golden rule here is to avoid opening emails from unknown sources. If something looks suspicious, trust your gut.

Before clicking on any links, hover over them to see the destination URL. This simple action can save you from falling into traps. If the URL looks odd or doesn’t match the supposed source, don’t click on it. Even if an email looks like it’s from your bank, it’s always safer to go directly to the website instead of using the link provided in the email.

Don’t forget to be wary of attachments. Downloading an attachment from an unknown email can immediately compromise your security. If you’re unsure about an attachment, reach out to the sender through another method to verify it’s legitimate.

Internet Browsing

Web browsing also comes with its own set of risks. Always ensure the websites you visit are secure. Look for the padlock symbol in the address bar and double-check that the URL begins with “HTTPS” instead of “HTTP”. This indicates that the site has security measures in place to protect your data.

Your browser can also be a powerful tool for maintaining security. Most modern browsers offer warnings when you’re about to enter a potentially unsafe site. Pay attention to these warnings and reconsider your actions if you see them. Adjust your browser settings to enhance security further, enabling features that block unsafe content and sites.

Secure File Sharing and Data Protection

Sharing files securely is critical in today’s digital age, especially when dealing with confidential information. Always use secure file-sharing solutions that offer encryption. Encryption ensures that only authorized parties can access the data, protecting it from prying eyes. Popular options include encrypted cloud storage services and secure email attachments.

Avoid storing important information in non-secure locations. Sensitive data should never be kept in places that lack robust security measures. Opt for secure storage solutions that offer encryption and access control, ensuring your data remains protected even if someone gains physical access to your storage devices.

When it comes to external storage devices like USB drives and external hard drives, take the extra step of scanning them for malware before using them. These devices can sometimes harbor malicious software that could infect your systems. Use reputable antivirus software to perform these scans.

For an added layer of security, always back up your important data. Regularly backing up your files not only protects you against data loss due to cyber-attacks but also from hardware failures. Store these backups in secure locations, such as encrypted cloud services or offline in a secure, physical location.

It’s also a good practice to limit access to sensitive data. Ensure that only those who absolutely need access to confidential information can reach it. Implement access controls and monitor who accesses your data to quickly identify and respond to any unauthorized attempts.

Strong Passwords and Authentication

Creating strong, unique passwords is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take to protect yourself online. Avoid using easily guessable passwords like ‘password123’ or ‘123456’. Instead, combine letters, numbers, and special characters to create complex passwords. Tools like password managers can help you generate and store these passwords securely.

Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message code or an authentication app, in addition to your password. This makes it significantly harder for someone to gain unauthorized access to your accounts, even if they somehow obtain your password.

Avoid the temptation to reuse passwords across different accounts. If one account gets compromised, using the same password elsewhere can lead to a domino effect, putting all your other accounts at risk. Password managers can assist you in keeping track of multiple strong, unique passwords without the need to remember each one individually.

Don’t forget to change passwords regularly. This limits the risk of long-term exposure if your credentials are compromised. Some password managers also offer features to schedule automatic password changes, which can enhance your overall security with minimal effort.

For sensitive accounts or information, consider using passphrases rather than single-word passwords. A passphrase is a sequence of words or other text that is easy for you to remember, but difficult for others to guess.

For more on how to create a strong password you can remember, you can click this link and read the post.

Using Security Tools and Software

Installing and regularly updating antivirus and anti-malware software is essential for keeping your devices safe. These tools scan your system for known threats and can often remove them before any damage is done. Make sure your antivirus software is always up-to-date, as new threats are constantly emerging.

Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an extra layer of security to your online activities, especially when using public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for anyone to eavesdrop on your data. This is particularly useful if you often find yourself working from cafes, airports, or other public places.

Persistently dealing with adware can be a headache. Adware not only slows down your device but also puts your privacy at risk by collecting your browsing data for targeted ads. Removing adware helps to not just speed up your device, but also protect your private information from being misused.

Elevate your security game by customizing your antivirus settings. Take advantage of features like real-time scanning and scheduled scans. These features offer proactive protection, catching threats as they arise and conducting regular checks to keep your system clean.

Consider using additional security tools like firewalls and anti-spyware. A firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking suspicious activity, while anti-spyware targets and eliminates software designed to gather information without your knowledge. Pairing these tools with your antivirus software creates a robust security system on your devices.

Network and Device Security

Securing your Wi-Fi connection is a must. Make sure your home Wi-Fi network is password-protected with a strong password. Avoid using easily guessable passwords like ‘password’ or ‘123456’. Instead, choose a complex combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.

Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it. Keeping Bluetooth enabled can be an open invitation for unauthorized access to your device. It might sound simple, but this small step can significantly reduce your vulnerability.

Another tip: Always lock your computer when you’re not using it. If you step away, even for a moment, use Ctrl-Alt-Delete or set up an automatic lock feature. This prevents anyone from accessing your files or data without your permission.

Protect your mobile devices as vigilantly as you do your computers. Use strong passwords or biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition to lock your smartphones and tablets. Enabling encryption on these devices ensures that even if they are lost or stolen, the data remains secure.

Lastly, be mindful of the networks you connect to when you’re out and about. Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but often lack sufficient security measures. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, make sure you’re also using a VPN to encrypt your internet connection.

Cybersecurity Awareness and Training

Educating yourself and others about cybersecurity threats is just as crucial as using advanced security tools. Knowledge can be your best defense against cyber-attacks. Stay informed about the latest security threats and best practices by following reliable sources, such as cybersecurity blogs and news sites.

Conducting periodic security risk audits helps identify vulnerabilities in your systems before attackers can exploit them. These audits can be done internally or through hired professionals. The key is to regularly assess and update your security measures to keep up with evolving threats.

Simulation and practical training can significantly raise awareness. Simulated phishing tests, for example, help employees recognize and avoid real phishing attempts. Interactive workshops teach practical skills that participants can apply immediately. Ensure that everyone in your organization, or household, knows basic cybersecurity practices.

Reward secure behavior to encourage a culture of security. Small incentives or public recognition can motivate people to stay vigilant. Providing accessible resources, such as easy-to-understand guidelines and regular updates on new threats, also keeps everyone informed and prepared.

Certifying your staff in cybersecurity best practices is another excellent step. Certifications not only enhance individual skills but also build a more robust defense for your organization. Consider enrolling team members in accredited cybersecurity courses.

Lastly, hiring a ‘White Hat’ hacker, or ethical hacker, can be invaluable. These professionals identify and fix security risks before malicious hackers can exploit them. Regular consultations with an ethical hacker can help maintain robust security measures.