cyber security

18 Cyber Security Tips for 2018

Here are 18 helpful cyber security tips for 2018 to keep your electronic data and devices safe.

  1. You are an attractive target to hackers. Don’t think, “It won’t happen to me.”
  2. Lock your computer when you are away from it. Even a few minutes is enough time for someone else to destroy or corrupt your information.
  3. Avoid unintentionally installing spyware on your electronic devices; never click on links within pop-up windows.
  4. Be wary of free downloadable software; you may be exposing your computer to spyware programs by downloading programs from questionable websites.
  5. Install both anti-virus and anti-spyware software on your computer, and make sure they are compatible.
  6. Take a little time to review, understand and use the privacy settings on social networking sites.
  7. Turn off the option to automatically download attachments in emails.
  8. Be wary of unsolicited attachments in email, even from people you know.  Many viruses can “spoof” the return address, making it look like the message came from someone else.
  9. Use different passwords on different systems and accounts.
  10. Don’t use passwords with personal information that can be accessed or guessed; use capital and lowercase letters, numbers and characters.
  11. Report spam email messages.
  12. Never click on a link in an email from someone you do not know.
  13. Stay safe when shopping online. Only do business with reputable vendors. Some cyber attackers create malicious websites that appear to be legitimate; always verify the site before supplying any personal or financial information.
  14. Never plug an unknown USB drive into your computer to try to identify or locate the owner.
  15. Monitor your accounts (email, social media, banking, etc.) for any suspicious activity. If you see something unfamiliar, it could be a sign that you’ve been compromised.
  16. Disable Bluetooth when you’re not using it, to help prevent hacking.
  17. Hackers have strategies for attacking devices through public Wi-Fi. Keep firewalls enabled at all times; turn off file sharing when using  public Wi-Fi.
  18. Remember you can be a victim of cyber crime offline, too.  If someone calls asking for sensitive information, say no. Call the company directly to verify before giving out information.

Sources: Department of Homeland Security; Heimdal Security; Cisco