Thomas Cyber recently delivered a talk about cyber security to the mortgages sector, including members of the banking and finance industry. The presentation was a general outlook of the current cyber security landscape and about information protection. The audience drove a great question and answer session.
We continue to grow our reliance on digital technology, cyber security is becoming increasingly more important for everyone. Whether you’re a business owner, an employee, or just someone who uses technology regularly, it’s essential to take steps to stay safe online.
As part of the question and answer session at the presentation, here are some hints and tips to start adopting a more cyber safe environment. These hints and tips only make up 10% of cyber safety, but a good start is always taking that first step:
Keep your software up to date: Cyber criminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to launch attacks. By keeping your software up to date, you can help prevent these types of attacks. Software updates must become a ritual in your organisation.
Use strong and unique passwords: Using weak passwords, or using the same password across multiple accounts, can put you at risk. Use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. A password manager though, is only as good as the security configuration applied to the software.
Enable two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring you to enter a code sent to your phone or email, or perform another action, in addition to your password before access to systems is granted. Two-factor authentication is not a silver bullet, but it is another layer of protection which is easy to implement.
Be wary of suspicious emails and messages: Cyber criminals often use phishing emails and messages to trick people into giving up sensitive information or downloading malware. Always be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar senders. If you don’t know the sender, delete the email!! No amount of automated Security Awareness Training will prepare you for this. Only common sense.
Protect your devices: Use antivirus/antimalware software and keep your devices locked with a strong password, PIN and biometric/facial ID. Don’t leave your devices unattended in public places, and don’t share codes with others to use your device. You are responsible for all activities on the device.
Educate yourself: Stay informed about the latest cyber security threats and best practices. You are constantly told to read reliable sources of information and do training, but who the hell has time to do that. Make sure you ask if you don’t know, and that is what Thomas Cyber is here for.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from cyber security threats and stay safe online.
The tips above only make up about 10% of an organisation’s cyber security posture.
You have to consider and ensure that a balanced mix of governance, people, physical security and technology are applied. You want to ensure that your systems are configured for simplistic, sensible and sustainable protection and keeping it realistic at all times.
Reach out to Thomas Cyber if you would like to discuss your cyber security requirements.
The Thomas Cyber Team.