How to Keep Your Computer Safe
In our world today, technology has rapidly integrated itself into everyday life. Businesses, educational institutions, and individuals all store private information in their computers, thus creating an increased need for cyber-protection.
Computer hackers getting ahold of confidential work or personal information can severely impact your personal finances or your business which may take years to recover from.
National Cyber Security Awareness Month is acknowledged every October as a coalition between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance. Here are tips to practice for a safe online experience.
Lock down your login
Websites always require a username and password to access their services today. To avoid being hacked by a third-party, the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) advises you to fortify your identity by using a randomized password from an online password generator and separate passwords for every account. When available, consider using multi-factor authentication, such as Google Authenticator.
Be a safe and secure online shopper
Research the website first and scan through it for legitimacy before putting in your information in. Ensure the site you are purchasing from is security enabled with https:// in the browser.
Always have a backup
You can never be too prepared for unpredictable events like natural disasters, computer crashes, or viruses. No matter what the issue is that may hit, don’t let your data take the fall with it. There are many options for backing up your data like iCloud, Windows 10, or an external hard drive. Some portable flash drives to transport information now come with passwords that create secured access to the stored information.
Be skeptical of unusual emails
The latest method hackers have been utilizing to plant malware into computers is through links in emails. Everyone including businesses, organizations, and personal accounts may receive emails about filling out a survey or clicking on a mysterious link. By doing that, the website it leads to will ask for your account information and thus gain access to your information. Avoid this situation by not pursuing emails that appear suspicious. Legitimate emails from online companies will never ask for your account name or password through email.
Do you know that DTRIC provides cyber-insurance to protect your business?
We can provide liability coverage to protect businesses, which can be added at a reasonable rate to your policy. This cyber security insurance includes coverage costs of recovering from a computer attack, with broad protection on network liability claims including:
- Outside legal counsel
- Forensic IT review, and
- Identity restoration services to affected individuals.