Cyber hygiene refers to the practice of maintaining a secure and healthy online environment. It involves following best practices and taking steps to protect yourself and your devices from cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, phishing scams, and other types of attacks.
In today's increasingly digital world, it is more important than ever to prioritise cyber hygiene in order to keep your personal and sensitive information safe.
Here are some key tips for practicing good cyber hygiene:
- Use strong and unique passwords for your accounts online. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts and make sure to use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Consider using a password manager to generate and store your passwords securely.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts by demanding a second form of verification, such as a OTP sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
- Keep your devices updated with the latest security patches and updates. These updates often include important fixes for known vulnerabilities, so it is important to install them as soon as they are available.
- Be careful when opening emails and while clicking on links from unknown sources. Cyber criminals often use phishing scams to trick people into giving away their personal information or downloading malware. If you are unsure about an email or link, do not click on it and contact the sender to verify their identity.
- Use a reputable antivirus and firewall software to protect your devices. These programs can help to identify and block known threats, and can also alert you to suspicious activity on your device.
- Be mindful of the information you share online. Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information on social media or other public platforms. Also, be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, as they may not be secure.
By following these tips and being mindful of your online activities, you can help to protect yourself and your devices from cyber threats.
Good cyber hygiene is an essential part of staying safe online, so make sure to prioritise it in your daily routine.