Any organization that deals with any kind of valuable data is guaranteed to be on the hit list of at least one hacker. But simply being a target doesn’t mean you must eventually become the victim of a data breach. The following are basic steps that your employees can benefit from.
Use two-factor authentication
Many digital entities such as e-mail services and banks offer two-factor authentication when users log into their accounts. Two-factor authentication means that a user not only relies on the basic username and password. It also offers an added piece of protection such as a code sent to your phone via SMS. This will make it harder for a hacker to gain access to your accounts.
Download from secure websites only
There are hundreds upon hundreds of websites that provide you with free software. Not all of them are reliable; you ought to be careful about your sources. If not you could end up downloading malware or spyware specifically designed to steal all your personal information.
Avoid clicking on unknown links
We have all received spam e-mails with links that direct us to specific websites. This is a much more common problem than most folks realize. You’ll be surprised that even technological savvy lads often fall prey to some pretty basic tricks by hackers.
These days many blogs and websites use tiny URLs. Only click on links that you are sure are from reliable resources. If in doubt please don’t click.
Be cautious of Public Wi-Fi Networks
Before you connect to a public wireless hotspot, be sure to confirm appropriate login procedures with the staff to affirm the network is legit. Do not work on sensitive data using a public wireless network.
Only use sites that have the prefix https:// when submitting sensitive information online. This denotes that the transfer will be encrypted and consequently more secure. Using your mobile network connection is generally more secure than a public wireless network.
Secure Your Mobile Devices
Along with your tablet and laptop, that Smartphone in your pocket has most of your digital life mapped out. And if you use it for work it could be home to some pretty sensitive information of your company. It’s no brainer that your mobile device needs to be protected too.
I would urge you to have the most up-to-date mobile security software, web browser, operating system, and applications. This is one of the best defenses against malware, viruses and other online threats.
Use strong passwords, pass codes and other features such as touch identification to lock your devices. Securing your device can help protect your information if your device is lost or stolen and keep prying eyes out.
Be safe on social platforms
Don’t go pouring your soul on social media. Keep in mind that your social accounts can be the gateway a hacker requires to social engineer his or her way into other accounts. On twitter and Facebook, you can opt to hide your updates from anyone not on your friend list. Be sure to keep abreast with updated settings relating to privacy.
