Top 4 Cybersecurity Tips
Top 4 Cybersecurity Tips in Pittsburgh PA
The importance of cybersecurity has never been greater than it is now. As we spend more time online, we create and share more personal information. Private and financial information could be jeopardized if this data falls into the wrong hands and is crucial for both organizations and people.
Be Cautious of Links
Hackers frequently utilize links in emails to lure people into giving up their personal information. Banking statements, trip reservations, password recovery emails, and other documents are common examples.
If a user clicks on one of these links, they will be directed to a false website that looks strikingly similar to the real one. They will be asked to login or enter personal information on the website. Once a hacker has this information, they gain access to the account of the user.
As a result, it’s extremely important to keep an eye on the links in your emails. Don’t click on anything that appears suspicious. In many cases, visiting a provider’s website directly rather than via an emailed link is the better option.
Use Modern Endpoint Security Software & Firewalls
To combat malicious attacks, anti-virus (AV) protection software has traditionally been the most widely used approach, but in this day and age it’s only one part of the solution. Managed Detection & Response (MDR) tools have also become indispensable tools in helping to prevent malware, ransomware and other harmful applications from entering your device and corrupting your data.
When it comes to protecting your data from hostile attacks, using a firewall is also essential. A firewall protects your device by filtering out hackers, malware, and other dangerous behavior that occurs over the Internet and deciding what traffic is allowed to enter. Windows Firewall and Mac Firewall are the firewalls that come with Windows and Mac OS X, respectively, but having an enterprise-grade firewall solution at your organization’s perimeter is an absolute MUST as well.
Use Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication, often known as multi-factor authentication, is a service that adds additional layers of security to the traditional password-based method of online identity. You would ordinarily input a username and password without two-factor authentication. However, if you use two-factor authentication, you will be asked to provide an extra authentication method such as a Personal Identification Code, another password, or even your fingerprint. After entering your login and password, you’ll be required to input additional authentication methods with multi-factor authentication.
Backup Your Data Regularly
Regularly backing up your data is an often-overlooked aspect of personal online security. The 3-2-1 backup guideline is followed by the top IT and security executives. In essence, you’ll retain three copies of your data on two separate types of media (local and external hard drives), as well as one duplicate off-site (cloud storage).
If you’ve been infected with ransomware or malware, the only tried and true method to get your data back is to wipe your systems and restore from a recent backup.
If You Haven’t Taken Steps to Secure Your Data, Your Data Isn’t Safe
“It won’t happen to me,” or “I don’t frequent unsafe websites,” are some of the most dangerous assumptions you can make. Real peace of mind comes with having taken steps to be proactive in your approach.
Simple cyber security guidelines like these can help you avoid a disaster, but they just scratch the surface of how you can educate and safeguard your team. Contact us today to learn more about how our bespoke solutions can help you safeguard your users.