Source: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
Everyone can take straightforward steps to enhance their online security. Here are four essential practices recommended by CISA to keep you cyber safe:
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
A password alone isn’t sufficient to protect your online accounts. Adding a second layer of verification, such as a text message, email confirmation, authentication app code, fingerprint, Face ID, or a FIDO key, significantly enhances security. This extra step ensures that your bank, email provider, or any other service can verify your identity. Enable MFA on your email, social media, online shopping, financial services, and even gaming and streaming accounts to reduce the risk of hacking.
Keep Your Software Updated
Activate automatic updates to protect against vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals exploit system flaws, so it’s crucial to keep the operating systems on your mobile phones, tablets, and laptops up to date. Also, ensure that applications, especially web browsers, are updated regularly. Automatic updates help maintain security across all your devices and applications.
Be Cautious with Links
Over 90% of successful cyber-attacks begin with phishing emails. Phishing schemes trick you into revealing sensitive information like passwords, social security numbers, or credit card details by mimicking legitimate links or webpages. These attacks can also prompt you to download malicious software (malware). If you encounter an unfamiliar link, trust your instincts and think before you click.
Use Strong Passwords and a Password Manager
In our increasingly digital and interconnected world, strong passwords are vital. Use a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each of your accounts. This practice not only enhances your security but also simplifies managing multiple passwords.
By adopting these practices, you can significantly improve your cybersecurity and contribute to the protection of the digital systems we all rely on.
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