The year 2018 certainly brought with it a number of cybersecurity issues. From the beginning of the year until the end, we witnessed a trail of data breaches, hacks, as well as a lot of security vulnerabilities. Now that we have entered the year 2019, the trend, unfortunately, seems to be set to continue this year as well with more threats to our online security.
According to Sophos 2019 report, ransomware, IoT malware, and several other security threats will remain active in 2019 as well. So, does that mean that you will remain vulnerable to hacks throughout the year? Well, nobody can ever assure a 100% security protection, particularly when it comes to online security. However, you can certainly minimize the risks by keep employing some basic security measures. So, here we give a quick brief about how to ensure online security in 2019.
To-Do List For Adequate Online Security In 2019
1. Stay Wary Of Tech Support Scams
Tech support scams have been troubling the internet users for quite a while. Precisely, one can relate their emergence to the exponential rise in online customer support centers and cold-calling. While the actual support systems aims to benefit the customers, the malefactors are using this method for their own devices. Therefore, one should be very careful while communicating with any online tech support to avoid falling a prey to hackers. The more you avoid approaching remote or online tech support which is not the official provider for the product/system needed, the better.
2. Think Before You Click
Another common trick that the hackers use to victimize innocent internet users is phishing. One click on a wrong click could create chaos for you. This may range from malware attacks to password hacks, and even financial losses. Therefore, make sure you think well before clicking on a link. Stay away from all such websites and emails that ask your personal details, email address with passwords, or bank account details.
3. Take Care Of Your Passwords
Credential stuffing and password hacking are just another sort of routine cyber attacks. While people have learnt to make stronger passwords, they still miss an opportunity to keep them unique. That is why the hackers still achieve success in credential stuffing attacks as people use same passwords. To avoid this problem, it is highly advised to create unique passwords for every account, regardless of whether you use it frequently or not. In addition, using a password manager is another method to keep your passwords secure and unique, without the need to memorize them all.
4. Employ Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication has been around for quite some time. While not entirely fool-proof, and may sometimes become something of a burden as well, MFA, nonetheless, adds an added security layer to protect your account. Perhaps, you won’t mind doing some extra effort to log into your account to protect it from hackers.
5. Secure Your Cloud Databases
Well, to understand this point, let’s recall all those weird data breaches from unsecured S3 buckets. Certainly, you don’t want the hackers to steal your precious data, do you? Then why not keep it protected!
6. Encrypt Storage Drives
External storage drives certainly provide a nice storage option for handling bulk data. But, hacking these drives isn’t so difficult either. So, make sure you keep the drives adequately encrypted.
7. Don’t Be Too Social On Social Media
Throughout the year 2018, we have heard of several instances where Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and almost all major social networking platforms have ditched their users (either accidentally or intentionally). After so many troubles, it seems a better idea to restrict your social media activities. Even if you’re an avid user, you can at least try not to share your personal information on these networks.
8. Install A Robust Anti-Malware
This is simply a reiteration of the commonly known security tip that we miss the most. Having an average antivirus software won’t sufficiently protect your device from malware attacks. Make sure you install a robust and reputed anti-malware tool that adequately fights back all known malware.
9. Keep Your Devices Updated
Adding to the list of security malpractices is the habit of ignoring software updates. That’s where the hackers win. They spot the vulnerable devices and hack them by exploiting the software weaknesses. Many times, the vendors have already released security fixes, but the users missed to update their systems. Consequently, they become a victim of cyber attacks. Therefore, make sure to keep your all apps and software programs in your device updated.
10. Don’t Use An App? Delete Right Away
Keeping unwanted or excessive apps not only occupy your device memory but also access your data. So, get rid of all additional apps in your device in the first place. Simple as that!
Although many of you would already know these points, at times ignoring the basic online security tips can make us fall prey to cyber attacks – thus, we have made up this list as a quick reference for you. If you already employ these tips, thumbs up. If not, then make sure you secure yourself at your earliest convenience.
Did we miss out any important tip? If yes, do share with us via the comments below.
Team LHN wishes you a happy and safe 2019!