Keeping our online accounts safe is high on the list of importance. However, we understand that it isn’t always at the forefront of our minds. Following best practices can seem a tedious task but it can be the difference between your accounts getting hacked.
Everything is online these days. From business information to personal information and even payment information, our lives are online. And although technology enriches our lives, it also leaves us vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
We understand that losing your account (no matter the size) is a scary thought. That’s why brushing up on your online safety is a lot less hassle than falling victim to cyber-attacks.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Setting up multi-factor authentication is arguably one of the best ways of keeping your online accounts safe. When you (or someone else) attempt to log into your account, you’ll be prompted to open multi-factor authentication.
Microsoft authenticator is an example of a multi-factor authenticator. However, there are many more out there.
Passwords
Use a password even when optional
I’m sure we’ve all heard the saying, ‘It’s better to be safe than sorry.’ This rings true when it comes to opting in for passwords.
Declining the password option may save you two minutes in the moment. However, it heightens the chances of someone else being able to access your accounts.
Change your password regularly
Changing your password regularly reduces the chances of someone else being able to access your accounts. Business devices usually have a monthly prompt encouraging employees to change their passwords. However, this should be standard for personal accounts too!
Set a reminder on your phone every 1-3 months to change all passwords. And don’t use the same password for multiple accounts!! This may seem convenient at the time but if a hacker can access one account, they can access them all.
Choose a unique password
We know we’re all guilty of using the classic ‘Password1234’ or the name of a family pet. It’s human nature to be compelled to pick something memorable. Even so, it’s important to remember the more simple the password, the more vulnerable your online accounts are.
Following best practices, we recommend using a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols. Additionally, use a mixture of numbers and letters and never include any personal information.
Be careful when clicking links!
It’s easy to be caught out by phishing emails. The way around this is to not just click any old link you get sent via email. If you receive an email from an unrecognisable address or something doesn’t feel right, don’t click on it! Delete the email and block the sender.
For employers, it’s a good idea to train your employees on how to spot phishing emails.
VPN
Make use of a VPN (virtual private network). I’m sure we’ve all connected to a free WIFI network when in a coffee shop or when running errands. However, you don’t know anything about the security of the connection.
It’s possible that someone else using the same network could start looking through or stealing data without your knowledge.
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, routing it through a server owned by the VPN company. This means nobody can snoop through your data. In addition to this, using a VPN hides your IP address.
Are you a business looking to keep your accounts safe
As part of the Unite Group, we understand the many cyber threats that businesses are vulnerable to. That’s why, we believe it’s important to go the extra mile when it comes to cyber security. With this in mind, we offer Cyber Essentials.
Cyber Essentials is a Government-backed and industry-supported scheme that allows businesses to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.
A foundation-level certificate protects your business from 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches.
Want to know more? Visit our website for more information!
Why not check out our socials – Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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