Cybersecurity should matter to everyone. If you believe that only large businesses with billions of data are the only ones targeted by hackers, then you are very wrong. According to Infosecurity Magazine, over 1.4 billion records of data were exposed in just first quarter of 2018. That should send the alarm bells ringing in anyone.
The purpose of this article is not to make you panic; rather, this article seeks to make you alert, cautious and aware of the danger of cybercrimes. It is impossible to have 100% security; even the most advanced security system in the world cannot guarantee 100% security. Cyber security is such a popular issue among college students that you can buy an essays on this topic online.
But you can do the little to make yourself less vulnerable to cyberattacks. Here are five things that everyone should know to avoid being a victim of cyberattacks.
1) Human Error Leads to More Cyberattack Than Any Other Factor
In most cases of cyberattacks and cybercrimes, we have realized that it was down to human error, oversight, or neglect. Many believe that uninstalling the anti-virus on their device, disabling their firewalls or error from security providers is main cause of attacks. But most times, it is as a result of our neglect of the little things such as leaving the piece of paper containing our password on the table or forgetting your device in a public area.
Try and avoid these common errors. If you own a business, try and encourage your staff to avoid them too.
2) Make sure your apps and operating systems are up-to-date
The rate at which software providers ditch out updates may be annoying at times. However, you need to realize that they need to upgrade to deliver the best for you, especially in terms of security.
Patch your system often, you will notice the security holes in your system, and you’d be able to fix them soon.
3) Take your mobile device seriously like you do your computers and laptop
Many people are of the misconception that their mobile device is not as susceptible to attack as their work computer or personal laptop. This misconception can make your mobile device an easier target than your computer or laptop.
Perform regular scans on your mobile device, too, to ensure that the anti-virus software is up-to-date and do whatever the security settings asked of you by the manufacturer. This is how you ensure your mobile device is equally secure, like your computer and laptop.
4) Small businesses are targeted as much as the large ones
Do not think for once that your small business is too small a target for cybercriminals. Some believe that small businesses and firms are easy targets for hackers as they do not have the same level of high security as the big ones.
Small businesses can have a clientele list that has wealthy names; small businesses have a payroll system that when diverted would make for high reward. Take security seriously no matter how small your business is.
5) Your Security System Cannot Be Perfect, But You Can Always Aspire for Perfection
It is impossible for you to achieve 100% security that is impenetrable. You have to accept this reality. The question then is how do you aspire for protection then and why should you even bother?
First, regular updates are the closest thing to perfection you can get. Keep your security system up-to-date; that way you can always stay ahead in the race between hackers and the rest of the world.
Second, you should bother because an attack can be devastating, leaving your website/server down as well as resulting in a loss of money. Couple that with the fact that your users/clients will also lose trust in your ability to protect their data – and you realize you need to care about your security.
Do all you can to make your system secure, whether it is for you as an individual, a small business, or even a large corporation.
How To Protect Yourself When Working Remotely
With the rise in the popularity of remote work, the cybersecurity challenges of remote work have increased. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe when working online:
- Use strong passwords and never reuse them across different accounts.
- Be aware of phishing scams. Do not click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.
- Keep your computer and software up to date with the latest security patches.
- Use a VPN when working on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Be cautious about what you share on social media. Avoid posting personal information or work details that cybercriminals could use.
Final Words
The race between cybersecurity providers and hackers is a real one. It is a constant with both sides trying to emerge at the top. In the middle are individuals, businesses, governments and organizations with data. Do your part to ensure that your system is less vulnerable to an attack.
