Cyber-attacks are a real threat in 2022, to just about anyone. Large organizations, small businesses, non-profits, and even individuals alike are all at risk of their data being compromised stolen, hacked, or corrupted.
This is why it’s becoming increasingly important to protect what matters to you. Whether this is company data, personal emails, or financial information, use these 5 tips to tighten up your IT and online security.
Make Backups
Any data that’s important to you for whatever reason needs to be regularly backed up in order to keep it protected. Relying purely on isolated files (or worse, physical copies) leaves you at risk of losing files to corruption, theft, or even damage from fires or floods.
Keep everything backed up – twice if you want to be extra careful, in the form of a hard copy and in the cloud. These days, you can even make backups of your obsolete media by doing a VHS or 8mm transfer which allows you to protect precious memories or important information from years ago.
Pay For an Anti-Virus
Sure, free cyber security exists, but data protection isn’t something to take lightly. Most of the time, if you have something worth protecting, it’s worth paying for optimal protection. Do some research online to figure out what the best option for you or your company might be and weigh up the pros and cons.
Choosing a reputable and reliable cyber security company will give you the peace of mind that your information is safe, but remember that it’s up to you to make sure that it’s up to date and that your files are backed up.
Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
“Letmein123” might seem funny at the time, but you’ll be regretting not taking it seriously the day you get hacked. Your passwords should be strong and secure, and different on each important account – using the same password across different platforms means that all your accounts and data could end up compromised in the case of a data leak.
To take extra precautions, consider changing your passwords regularly (around every 6 months or so) and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Protect Your Devices
Cyber-attacks often occur due to the sheer negligence of leaving devices unlocked, unattended, or somewhere they can be stolen and broken into. Protect your devices by keeping them on hand and keeping a watchful eye over them at all times.
Personal devices should be taken home from work and stored safely, and devices that are in the office should always be locked upon leaving the room.
Be Suspicious
Finally, the most simple piece of advice is to be suspicious of emails, links, websites, and even people that look like they might be fishy.
Don’t share your passwords or any other important details with anyone you don’t trust, and avoid clicking any links or submitting any online forms if you’re not 100% certain of where they came from or that they are trustworthy and legit.
