Being aware and prepared is one of the best ways to prevent cyber security attacks in the office or at home. When you know what you are looking for, the chances of falling for an attack are slimmer. When you’re ahead of the game, you can’t be gamed. Here are 10 ways to be cyber-secure when you are at home.
- Identify your perimeter - Less is more! The fewer connected devices and entry points you have, the safer your network is.
- Update software and devices regularly - Regular updates make you less vulnerable to attack. Only download updates from the manufacturer and enable auto-updates when possible.
- Secure your Wi-Fi network - Routers often have default credentials that people don’t know about. Disable the “remote configuration” option in your router and change both your Wi-Fi password and your router password.
- Watch out for insecure websites - Always use HTTPS for sensitive communications. Don’t ignore browser warnings and always remember to check the website address carefully for misspellings and oddly-placed letters or numbers. When in doubt, manually enter the URL in your browser.
- Back up your files - Backups save your information if your device breaks or is taken over by an attacker. Back up files to a removable device that can be locked away safely, such as a CD or flash drive.
- Don’t download carelessly - Files can contain malware, and websites aren’t always what they appear to be. Always verify sender identity before downloading files and remember: If it comes from an oddly-spelled email or is hosted on a site that makes your browser generate a warning, stay away!
- Encrypt devices to deter thieves - Encryption renders files unreadable without the correct key. Some devices offer the option to encrypt individual files or the entire device. Consider which solution suits your needs best.
- Practice password safety - Choose long passwords containing uncommon words. Use unique passwords for sensitive accounts and a password manager to help you remember them.
- Always use antivirus software - Antivirus needs updates, too! Set it to auto-update.
- Keep yourself informed - New cybersecurity bugs and attacks pop up every week. Staying informed about the latest threats will help you be safe!
Remember, you can report all suspicious emails to Technology Services at cchelpdesk@ccis.edu
Even if you know it is a phishing attack and ignore it, by reporting it you can help the Information Security Team identify and mitigate the attack for others.
Be mindful of the information you post online or on social media.
Social Engineers can use all sorts of information you post to help them take over your identity.
The Information Security Team is growing, and dedicating itself to not only keeping our systems secure, but bring awareness and education to you to help keep you more secure in the office and at home.
Stay up to date with all that we are doing at our blog!