Protect Your Data From Increasing Cybersecurity Attacks
Most of us spend more time online doing things like buying products, accessing social media, attending office meetings, and banking. As a result, it has become quite hard to imagine our lives without digital technology these days.
The increased use of online services, internet-ready devices, and cloud services have greatly increased the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. Therefore, it is integral for both businesses and internet users to have a clear idea of protecting data and protecting themselves from cyberattacks.
More than thousands of hackers and cybercriminals will try to steal confidential business data and personal data for their gain. This means that businesses of all sizes need to implement essential data security measures to prevent hackers from launching such an attack. Certified Ethical Hacker can help out to save any data breach from such hackers.
Why Cybersecurity Is Essential
There is no denying the fact that most of us are already heavily relying on technology these days. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are aware of this, and they try to use our reliance on online systems, mobile apps, and websites against us.
It is crucial to realize that both small and large-scale businesses are at risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. For example, internationally reputed businesses such as Linkedin, Yahoo, Adobe, and eBay have become victims of cyberattacks.
As mentioned earlier, all businesses should have a solid and effective cybersecurity process in place. In addition, the cybersecurity measures must be regularly reviewed, as it will help you ensure that your business is well prepared if there happens to be a cyberattack.
Tips To Protect Your Data from Increasing Cybersecurity Attacks
Several effective tips will enable businesses to offer better protection to both business and customer data. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
Use Strong Passwords
Most internet users would be aware that it is essential to assign strong and unique passwords to protect themselves from hackers. In other words, users and businesses that use strong passwords will keep cybercriminals away from their data.
The 2017 new password policy framework released by the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) recommends businesses and internet users to consider doing the following things.
- Avoid using the same password more than once
- Passwords should contain at least one uppercase letter, one number, one lowercase letter, and four symbols
- Always choose a password that is easy to remember, but make sure no one will be able to crack it
- If you forget your password, then it is best to reset it. It is best to change your passwords at least once every year.
Keep Software Systems Up To Date
Ransomware attacks are one of the most common types of cyberattacks. Fortunately, you will be able to reduce the chances of falling prey to ransomware attacks by patching all outdated systems, including applications, and operating systems.
This will, in turn, remove critical vulnerabilities, which cyberattackers might try to exploit for accessing your devices. Here are a few things you can do to prevent ransomware attacks.
- Ensure that your internet browsers make use of automatic security updates
- Turn on automatic updates for your devices
- Update Java, Flash, and all other web browser plugins
Use An Antivirus Protection Software
Businesses that want to prevent the chances of malicious attacks should consider investing in an antivirus protection software system. AV software systems will help businesses block malware and other types of malicious viruses from accessing your devices and compromising data.
In addition to that, you should also consider using a firewall, as it will help you defend data from malicious attacks. A firewall will screen out viruses and hackers to protect your data.
Use SSL Certificates
Secure Socket Layer or SSL certificates create a protective encryption layer for information transferred between the browser and the server. As a result, information sent to the user’s browser and the information sent back to the internet browser will be encrypted.
Using an SSL certificate will enable you to protect business and customer data from identity fraud, data thieves, and other types of malicious activities. It will also make your website look a lot more trustworthy to visitors and increase the chances of getting a higher Google rank.
There are types of SSL certificates available in the market with different functionalities. Like, If you are running a website with multiple first-level sub-domains under the main domain, it is best to invest in a Wildcard SSL certificate. Installing this single certificate will simplify managing subdomains and offer an SEO boost to websites. A cost-effective and future-proof cybersecurity product, this will keep your website raring to go!
Here is a list of the best SSL certificate providers that offer SSL certificates at the lowest price. You can select any certificate as per your site requirement.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication or two-factor authentication can be defined as a service that adds multiple security layers to keep unauthorized users away from your account.
Users will have to go through one additional authentication method, such as using a fingerprint, entering another password, or adding a personal identification code to complete the login process with two-factor authentication.
Understand About Phishing Scams
Cybercriminals may trick email recipients into clicking malicious links or opening attachments, which will infect their system with a trojan, malware, or other viruses during a phishing scheme attempt.
Do you know that nearly 90 percent of ransomware attacks start from phishing attacks? Fortunately, you will be able to protect yourself from phishing scams by doing the following things.
- Avoid opening emails from people you do not know
- Malicious links might come from your friends too. So, it would be best if you were suspicious of all emails sent to you.
Use A Password Manager
A password manager can be described as a program or software, which will keep all your passwords in a single place. You will be able to unlock all these passwords with just one master key password. You will not have to remember all your passwords when using a password manager.
Avoid The Use of Debit Cards
It is best to avoid using debit cards when you are making online payments. Instead of debit cards, you should consider using online payment options that offer additional protection to your bank account from hackers. This means that it is best to use Paypal or a credit card that comes with insurance.
Be Careful When Using Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms are indeed an excellent way to keep in touch with family and friends. However, you should be aware of what you are sharing on these platforms.
Hackers and cybercriminals will be able to learn a lot about you from your public social media profiles. So, it is best not to share a lot of information about yourself on social media.
Conclusion
Every small and large-scale business should have essential cybersecurity measures in place to protect confidential business data and safeguard customer data.
Businesses that implement the cybersecurity measures mentioned above and properly educate their staff on cybersecurity risks will be able to offer greater protection to their data.
Mustafa Al Mahmud is the Founder and CEO of Gizmo Concept and also a professional Blogger, SEO Professional as well as Entrepreneur. He loves to travel and enjoy his free moment with family members and friends.