Protect yourself online

By John Shelton, VNSFS Information Security Manager

Cyber Security Month reminds us that we must do our due diligence every month, every week, every day and actually every time we interact online.

DATA IS Power.

The whole power of AI is how it captures and manipulates data.

Bad actors are always trying to get your data or access to the data you have access to. It’s high-tech dumpster diving.

To counter act, we all must practice cyber situational awareness. Here are some recommendations:

• Trust no one, and question everything.
• Be suspicious of emails or any online interactions that request information about you or our company.
• Don’t open any unsolicited emails or text messages.
• If contact info is provided don’t use it, look up the contact info separately to verify it legitimate.
• Check for correct spelling of company names.
• Any payment related emails should be verified via a phone call or physical contact prior to payment.
• Never accept time sensitive email demands.
• Always report any unusual or suspicious activity.

These are good reminders every month - not just October. Please practice situational cyber security awareness all year round.