10 Ways to Protect Yourself Against Cyberattacks

Cyberattacks are becoming more prevalent and sophisticated each year. With so much of daily life conducted online, it’s more important than ever to protect yourself from cybercriminals. This article outlines 10 ways to help stay safe from scammers.

1. Keep Your Data Close
   Limit the personal data you share online. Only share this data with trusted sources.
2. Stay Vigilant to Scams
   Be aware that cyberattacks and scams can occur via computers and phones, including text messages.
3. Keep Software Updated
   Update your devices’ operating software to the latest versions for improved cybersecurity.
4. Make Passwords Unique
   Create unique passwords for each website you use. Make these passwords strong by using uppercase letters, special characters and numbers.
5. Use Two-factor Authentication
   Use two-factor authentication whenever possible, which involves verifying your identity in multiple ways before logging into an account.
6. Watch Your Accounts
   Monitor your personal accounts regularly, such as banking statements and credit reports, for any suspicious activity.
7. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi Connections
   Conduct online business operations (i.e., anything involving personal information) on secure internet networks rather than public Wi-Fi connections.
8. Keep Your Login Credentials Private
   Never share personal information, such as usernames and passwords, with anyone who asks for it in a phone call or email, even if the contact seems reputable. Reach out to the appropriate individual or institution directly if you’re unsure whether the correspondence was fraudulent.
9. Be Careful Where You Click
   Never click on suspicious links in emails or texts, regardless of the sender. Scammers can spoof email addresses and phone numbers, so reach out to the purported sender directly before clicking on a link.
10. Stay Skeptical of Suspicious Messages
    Know that the government (e.g., the IRS) will never call or text you about owing money. These are only some of the ways you can stay safe online. Reach out to learn more about cyberattacks, including what to do if you fall victim to one.

Provided by Kingsgate Insurance

© 2022 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.