Cybersecurity Tips for This Happy & Healthy Holidays

It’s almost the holidays and many tech teams are reduced, the need for robust cybersecurity practices has never been more crucial. Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, making it challenging for individuals and organizations to stay protected. However, by following some essential cybersecurity tips, you can minimize the risks and ensure that your digital assets and data remain secure.

Cybersecurity Tips for This Festive Era

As new threats and vulnerabilities are constantly emerging, requiring rapid responses and innovative solutions. Following these cybersecurity tips can help minimize the risks of cyberattacks and protect your digital assets and data from cybercriminals.

So here is a list of some cybersecurity tips:

  1. Use strong and unique passwords for all accounts and devices.
  2. Enable multi-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection.
  3. Keep all software and systems up to date with the latest security patches.
  4. Use antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against malicious software.
  5. Back up data regularly to protect against ransomware attacks.
  6. Be wary of phishing emails and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
  7. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities such as online banking or shopping.
  8. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing the internet from public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks.
  9. Securely dispose of old devices and hard drives to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.
  10. Regularly monitor your credit report and financial accounts for any signs of fraudulent activity.

Phishing emails remain a significant threat, and individuals should be cautious when clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Using public Wi-Fi networks can also put you at risk, so it’s essential to avoid using them for sensitive activities such as online banking or shopping.

It’s crucial to monitor your credit report and financial accounts regularly for any signs of fraudulent activity. Taking proactive measures to protect your digital security can save you time, money, and stress in the long run, and safeguard your valuable digital assets and data.

Guide to Safer Gadgets

Did you know? November through January sees an average 70% increase in ransomware attacks! This is due in part to the holiday season, causing so much flurry that it’s easier for cybercriminals to slip under the radar – or for people to be too exhausted to care.

Before you go buying any presents just because they’re shiny, consider whether that is the safest gadget that you can give a loved one. Do some research: Does this phone have the best tracking prevention built in or just the biggest advertising budget? Which tablets aggregate and sell more data? Does that smart home have firewalls and malware detection built in? These questions matter when buying new tech, whether you want to fill an office with new computers or just get a present for that special someone!

During winter holidays, you’re just as likely to receive new digital devices as you are to give them. Take care when setting up these gadgets, with these 3 quick tips!

  1. Default passwords are easily broken in a brute force or password spraying attack, so change login details IMMEDIATELY
  2. Choose lengthy and complex passwords (Did you know? A recent study by Specops Software found 93% of passwords used in brute force attacks have more than 8 characters!)
  3. Set up security software as recommended by your IT service provider ASAP

Out with the Old

When we receive new gadgets, a lot of us pass on our old devices to family members, and friends or even sell them for some easy cash! Before you hand anything over, though, remember this cybersecurity tip: Wipe devices of data before selling or giving them away. It’s not as simple as moving everything to the Recycling Bin, either. You don’t want anyone else to take over as the device’s administrator and start delving into private data you didn’t even know it stored!

Page on a phone displaying cybersecurity tips

Thankfully, there’s an easy fix! Go into your General Settings > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. This will reset your gadget to factory default and wipe it clean of all your data. Do NOT manually delete programs and apps. ONLY reverting to factory settings actually wipes the device clean!

(Note: This setting is generally available on most devices, but its exact location may differ depending on the make and model.)

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is more important than ever in these cold months when digital threat actors are on high alert for easy prey. Hopefully, this article has helped pave the way for a safer holiday season, while still enjoying all the parts that make it merry. You can go get your sister the drawing tablet she’s wanted, or your son his Bluetooth speakers! Enjoy your new smart TV. Just don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays get your guard down.

Have a happy, cyber-hygienic holiday season!

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