ESET Cybersecurity 101

In this era of digitisation, prioritising cybersecurity is crucial to safeguard your personal information online. You can stay ahead of cyber threats by implementing and regularly auditing safe practices. This article will share practical tips and advice to help you navigate the digital landscape safely and securely.

Create Strong and Unique Passwords

A strong password should include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols that are difficult for others to guess. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name, birth date, or "password123." Having a unique password for each of your accounts is also essential. Consider using a password manager, which securely stores and generates unique passwords for different versions, making it easier to manage and remember them.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or a fingerprint, and your password.

Enabling 2FA for your online accounts whenever possible provides an additional safeguard against unauthorised access. Even if someone can obtain your password, they still need the second factor to gain access. Check the settings of your online accounts to see if 2FA is available and follow the instructions to enable it. This simple step can significantly enhance the security of your funds.

Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts

Phishing scams are common cyber threats and can be deceptive. These scams often come in the form of emails, text messages, or phone calls pretending to be from reputable organisations or individuals, and they usually aim to trick you into providing personal information or clicking on malicious links. Always be wary of unsolicited messages asking for personal details or urging immediate action. Look out for signs of phishing, such as generic greetings, misspellings, or suspicious email addresses. For more tips on spotting and avoiding these attacks, check out our recent article on phishing Phishing emails.

Keep Your Software Updated

Updating your operating system, web browsers, and other software applications ensures you have the latest security patches. Software updates often include fixes for known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to stay protected against these vulnerabilities. Keeping your software updated minimises the risk of falling victim to attacks that target outdated software.

Be Mindful of Social Media Privacy Settings

Review and adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to control who can see your posts and personal information. Be mindful of what you share publicly, as even seemingly harmless information can be exploited by cybercriminals. Avoid sharing sensitive information such as the name of your community, your child(ren)'s school, or vacation plans, and restrict access to your posts and personal data to trusted friends and connections. Take advantage of the privacy settings offered by each social media platform to customise your privacy preferences according to your comfort level.

Safeguard Personal and Financial Information

Exercise caution regarding personal and financial information. Be mindful when sharing this data type online, especially on unfamiliar websites. Look for the padlock symbol and "https://" in the website URL to ensure a secure connection before entering sensitive information. If you need more clarification about the legitimacy of a website, research it further before providing any personal or financial details. Additionally, consider using secure payment methods, such as PayPal or credit cards, with fraud protection when making online transactions. Regularly monitor your financial statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity.

Educate Yourself and Others

Staying informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices is crucial. Reliable sources, like welivesecurity.com provide valuable information on various cybersecurity topics. Educate yourself about common threats, such as phishing, malware, and identity theft, and learn how to protect against them. Proceed by sharing this knowledge with family, friends, and colleagues to help create a safer online community.

By implementing these cybersecurity tips, regularly auditing your practices, and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy the benefits of the digital world while minimising the risks of cyber threat.

Remember, staying safe online is an ongoing effort that requires vigilance and awareness.