6 Cybersecurity Basics Every User Should Nail

Technology is so firmly cemented in modern life that it’s not going anywhere (at least anytime soon).  

That means that cybersecurity is around for the long haul too.  

Despite this, many computer users continue to neglect the ever-increasing importance of good cybersecurity, putting both them and their workplace at risk.  

In this blog post, we take a look at 6 cybersecurity basics that every employee should be nailing by now. 

1. Strong and Unique Passwords 

Although password security has been spoken about so much, far too many users still use weak and easily guessable passwords. It’s also one of the easiest cybersecurity basics to fix!

Cybercriminals have access to powerful tools, enabling them to generate hundreds of password keys a second. 

Remember, your password is the first line of defense against a cyberattack and a weak one could allow a hacker to waltz right into your system.  

A weak password is like locking your front door with a wotsit – it’s not going hold.

Blog: How to Choose a Secure Password 

Many people reuse simple passwords as they have so many to remember. In fact, research shows that more than one-third of people have over 20 passwords. If you struggle to remember your passwords, it could be worth trying a password manager, such as NordPass or 1Password.  

2. Be Aware of Phishing Attacks

You’re already likely familiar with phishing attacks. In case you’re not, a phishing attack is a type of social engineering attack where a criminal coerces you to hand over personal or sensitive information.  

Hackers typically pose as a trusted contact or establishment, such as your colleague or bank and try to direct you to a spoof landing page encouraging you to enter sensitive information. Although your spam filter blocks most phishing emails, some slip through the net so it’s important to know how to spot one.  

Blog: How to spot a phishing scam 

Blog: How to report a phishing email 

3. Keep Software Up to Date 

As an IT support provider, we manage software updates and patch management for our clients, but it’s worrying to see how many businesses don’t keep their software and OS current.  

Why are regular updates important? 

Over time, hackers find weaknesses and vulnerabilities in software and operating systems and exploit them. This turns into a game of cat and mouse with software developers fixing these vulnerabilities, pushing updates out to users and hackers finding new vulnerabilities to exploit.  

If you don’t keep your systems up to date, you’re putting yourself and your network at risk.  

Blog: The Importance of Regular Software Updates 

Further Reading: Are Your Older Devices a Security Threat? 

4. Implement 2FA 

2 Factor Authentication has been a big topic recently and it’s understandable why. 2FA works alongside your password(s) and is an extra layer to your cybersecurity. It works by generating a code that only you can access (typically sent via SMS, through a phone call or generated via an authenticator app).  

With 2FA enabled on your accounts, a hacker would need to know your password and have access to your trusted device in order to gain access.  

Guide: How to Set up the Microsoft Authenticator App 

5. Report Security Incidents Immediately 

When things go wrong or accidents happen, we naturally want to avoid conflict and getting into trouble. However, it’s best to be open and honest when it comes to cybersecurity.

Whether you’ve downloaded a dodgy file, received a suspicious email or you’ve noticed some unusual activity, you should contact your IT support provider immediately.  

The quicker you let someone know, the sooner it can be fixed and minimise the damage caused.

6. Stay Educated and Updated 

Knowledge is power and cybersecurity never stands still, which makes it important to remain educated on the latest cybersecurity trends and to keep your knowledge up to date. 

There are lots of useful and informative blogs on the web that cover cybersecurity. One of our favourites is WeLiveSecurity from ESET.  

Alternatively, it may be worth investing in Cybersecurity Awareness Training. Our training platform covers 4 areas in particular: gap analysis, end-user training, breach monitoring and phishing simulations. You can learn more about it here.

Conclusion

We hope that you have found value in our blog on cybersecurity basics that every user should be nailing.

Building a strong cybersecurity culture is not an option but a necessity in today’s digital landscape.

By engaging employees in security practices, organisations can create a unified front against cyber threats, reduce risks, and protect valuable assets.

Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and together, we can fortify our defences and safeguard our digital future.

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