Digital connectivity is an indispensable force in our lives, making a major impactful statement about its significance to cybersecurity. However, as technology progresses so do online threats.
Oft times, our own actions place us at greater risk from scams or cyberattacks. Weak passwords and lax policies are two such risky behaviors; human error accounts for approximately 88% of data breaches.
National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) and CybSafe work to correct bad cyber hygiene. Their annual report examines attitudes and behavior related to cybersecurity; their goal is to educate both people and businesses alike on how they can better secure their digital environments.
This year's study included over 6,000 respondents in the U.S.A., Canada and UK as well as Germany France and New Zealand and asked several questions related to cybersecurity risks, best practices and challenges.
The report offers some fascinating and eye-opening findings about how people perceive cyber threats and respond to them as well as ways they can improve their cybersecurity posture. Furthermore, this document includes key findings.
No one should be surprised that 93% of participants in this study use the Internet daily, creating numerous logins deemed "sensitive", including ones with personal information that could prove damaging if compromised.
Nearly half of respondents (47%) reported owning at least 10 accounts that are sensitive and pose a security risk, particularly if multiple passwords were shared between these accounts.
Online Security Frustrates People
Most people (84%) recognize the significance of online safety; however, 39% find it stressful or intimidating, feeling helpless against hackers. Yet over half the people surveyed believed they had control of their digital security; still many don't trust this claim.
Don't become an easy target; by following best practices you can safeguard your online accounts.
Included herein is information on activating multi-factor authentication for your accounts, among others.
Protect yourself against malicious emails by employing an email spam filter to detect them.
Add a DNS filter for malicious website blocking
Use strong password best practices
Cybersecurity training should be more accessible to the general public
Training people is one way to reduce human error associated with cybersecurity, yet only 26% of respondents said they had received some form of training on the matter.
This was also broken down by employment status; those without jobs tend to suffer the most deficiencies while even those employed may benefit from additional training and encouragement; only 53% of respondents say they have access to cybersecurity training courses and take advantage of them.
Employers can reduce the risks of data breaches by increasing security awareness training. Additional training may also be offered to retirees or those not currently employed.
Cybercrime reports are on the rise Over one quarter (27%) of respondents identified themselves as victims of cybercrime.
Cybercrimes include phishing (47%) online dating scams (27%), identity theft (26%), and property crime. Nachwuchs The most prolific cybercriminal generation was reported by Millennials; Baby Boomers and Silent Generation had reported the least.
No matter your age or generation, adopting effective security practices is paramount to staying secure. Let's examine some of these below.
Utilize these online security best practices to reduce your risk.
1. Strong, Unique Passwords:
Start off right by making sure all accounts use strong passwords with unique numbers or letters as the passwords.
Combine uppercase, lowercase, and special characters.
2.Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
Multi-factor authentication can help increase account security.
MFA adds an additional barrier against unauthorized access, even if your password has been compromised.
3. Software Updates:
Conduct regular software updates of all of your apps and operating systems, from mobile apps to operating systems.
4. Be Wary of Phishing Attacks:
Take caution when opening or clicking on attachments received via emails from unknown senders, particularly emails containing viruses.
Verify emails and websites for legitimacy by searching for telltale signs such as incorrect URLs or unexpected sender addresses.
5. Connect to secure Wi-Fi networks:
Make sure your Wi-Fi network is password protected and safe by connecting to one that offers this protection.
Avoid using public WiFI for sensitive transactions without first using a virtual private network (VPN). Instead, if possible use private Wi-Fi instead for sensitive business.
6. Data Back-up.
WHENEVER data becomes critical, it should be securely backed-up on an external drive or the cloud service of your choice regularly and regularly.
7. Install Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
To ensure all devices remain protected against threats, always have antivirus and anti-malware software installed on them.
Be proactive in scanning your system regularly for threats.
8. Take note of social media settings:
Review and modify the privacy settings on various social media platforms to protect yourself.
Limit how much of your personal information is visible to the public.
9. Secure Your Devices:
Washaker Secure your devices using biometric authentication or strong passwords to provide added protection from cybercrime and theft.
10. Stay Informed and Educated:
Your team and you can gain from cybersecurity awareness programs, which will foster an atmosphere that is alert and prepared.
Schedule Cybersecurity Training Now!
Knowing more about cybersecurity can make a significant difference when it comes to protecting your data. Our security professionals offer training tailored specifically for your needs - this helps strengthen defenses against phishing scams and cyberattacks.
Reach out now if you want to arrange a meeting:📞 (404) 932-5940 or 📩info@nuwaveitc.com
