Cybersecurity Basics

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! Knowing some cybersecurity basics, and putting them into practice, will help you protect yourself and reduce the risk of a cyber-attack. Here are four tips for cybersecurity basics:

1. Update your software. An easy way to update your software consistently is by setting updates to happen automatically – this includes your apps, web browsers and operating systems.
2. Secure your files. Back up important files offline, on an external hard drive or in the cloud. Make sure you store your paper files securely, too.
3. Use strong passwords. Use strong passwords for all laptops, tablets and smartphones. A strong password is at least 12 characters that are a mix of numbers, symbols, capital letters and lowercase letters. Never reuse passwords and don’t share them on your phone, in texts or by email. You can also limit the number of unsuccessful login attempts to limit password guessing attacks.
4. Use multi-factor authentication when possible. Multi-factor authentication requires additional steps beyond logging in with a password — like a temporary code on a smartphone or a key that’s inserted into a computer.