Cybersecurity Tips

Strengthening cybersecurity defenses is essential for everybody. Here are practical, actionable security tips to help fortify your defenses and ensure long-term data protection:

• Strong Password: Use unique, complex passwords for each online account (don’t use pet/kid names or birth dates). Utilize a reputable password manager application like 1Password or BitWarden to help you keep track of your passwords. 
• Multi-Factor Authentication: Enable multi-factor authentication where offered, especially for email, social media, and financial accounts. Services like Authy and Google Authenticator provide additional layers of security for your accounts.
• Beware of phishing: Be cautious of unsolicited emails, messages, or calls asking for personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. If you have doubt… don’t click!
• Secure Wi-Fi: Secure your home Wi-Fi with a strong password and encryption. Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added online privacy.
• Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, software, and apps to patch known vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates when available.
• Backup Your Stuff: Regularly back up your important data to an external drive or a secure cloud service. Test your backups to ensure data recovery.
• Encrypt Sensitive Data: Encrypt sensitive files and data, especially on portable devices and external drives.
• Secure Home IoT Devices: Change default password such on IoT devices such as security cameras and “smart” appliances. Keep their firmware updated, and segment them from your main network, if possible.
• Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Attend cybersecurity awareness trainings if available.

Additional tips:

• Don’t let your kids use social media unsupervised and teach them to be savvy about online predators and sextortion. 
• Don’t post your kids or anyone’s names, birthdates (or announce their age/when birthday is) and school names on social media, and set your accounts to private. 
• Don’t post on social media that you’re going on vacation (telling the world your house will be empty). 

Supporting Documents

• Password Guidelines
• How to Protect Against Phishing
• Top Threats for Seniors
• Top Threats for Kids
• Wi-Fi Safety