Underestimation of risks. Most people are not overly concerned about cybersecurity because they believe that malware is not a threat to them. However, you can never predict which user will fall victim to another cybercriminal attack. Therefore, in order to maximize the protection of your data and avoid infection with malicious software, you should not only understand the possible risks but also follow the recommendations to prevent them.
Clicking on suspicious links. Spam messages, which come in dozens of e-mails every day, will surprise no one. However, spam is not only annoying marketing emails but also something much more dangerous. For example, you may receive an email in which you need to follow a link to receive valuable winnings – a smartphone or a car. But in reality, clicking on such a link leads to the download of malware. That is why you should avoid any suggestions that seem too attractive to be true, and in no case should you open files or links in suspicious emails.
Postponing software updates. A common mistake is to continually postpone software updates despite constant reminders. Indeed, during almost every software update, developers fix vulnerabilities in it or improve the cybersecurity system. It is worth noting that many known attacks could have been avoided if users installed the latest updates on time.
Reuse of passwords. To make it easier to remember, users often use the same passwords on several sites at once. Such actions endanger all accounts with the same password at once – if attackers gain access to at least one of them, they can easily gain access to the rest.
Lack of two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication is a simple yet effective way to create an extra layer of cybersecurity for your accounts. The most common authentication method used by most of the popular online services is a text message with a code that is sent to the phone. Thus, cybercriminals will not be able to gain access to confidential data, even if they have credentials.
Incorrect router settings. With the advancement of technology and the Internet of Things, the home router has become an indispensable device in every home. For convenience, most people leave the default settings set by their ISP. But a router requires compliance with security measures no less than a laptop or smartphone because it can become a source of spreading threats to other devices. That is why it is important to configure your router according to the recommendations.
Using unprotected open Wi-Fi networks. Most cafes, restaurants, and even shops have had a free Wi-Fi connection for a long time. But unsecured Wi-Fi can lead to theft of your personal data.
Refusal to use VPN. In addition to using a VPN to securely connect to open Wi-Fi networks, a VPN is also required to connect to corporate servers. You can also use a VPN to remotely access your home network and to limit the provider’s ability to view your online activities. Depending on the application, there are different types of VPNs that you can choose to secure your connections.
Lack of solution for protection. As cyber threats become more sophisticated and sophisticated every year, devices must have reliable antivirus software installed. Without it, one click on a malicious link can download malicious code to your computer or smartphone. Therefore, it is easier to take care of increasing cybersecurity and preventing possible risks. To do this, you should use antiviruses with several security levels that can prevent the most sophisticated threats from penetrating the device.
Underestimation of the importance of backup and encryption. Always back up important confidential data and files that you recently worked on. This way, you can seamlessly restore everything and continue working despite the loss of your device or other unforeseen circumstances. In addition, do not underestimate the importance of data encryption, which, if a device is infected with malicious code, will prevent cybercriminals from gaining access to valuable personal information. And if the device is stolen, encryption becomes an additional layer of protection until all data is deleted remotely.
Also, mistakes can be avoided by contacting specialists at the cyber security testing company Dataart. Your Safety is only in your hands!