We spend a lot of our lives online, which can at times include sharing personal, valuable information. But how secure is your data? In 2024, 1.35 billion people were impacted by data breaches, leakage and exposure, making it more important than ever to be hypervigilant with your cybersecurity. However, there are simple steps you can take to help protect your data.
1. Secure your home network
With the rise of remote work in recent years, at-home networks, work technologies and smart home devices can be even bigger targets for hackers. Only work remotely from a secure Wi-Fi network. Make sure your equipment is up to date and regularly change your Wi-Fi password to help ensure you keep cybercriminals off your network.
2. Keep tabs on connected devices
Smart technology like AI assistants and video doorbells can make life easier, but they can also be a cybercriminal's key into your house unless you've set up a secure wireless network. To stay extra secure, consider keeping certain connected devices turned off when not in use.
3. Be aware of public Wi-Fi
Public networks are easy targets for hackers, making them a particularly risky place to manage your banking and finances. Only complete financial transactions, like banking and shopping, on a trusted network with your own device that's protected by security software. When possible, use your phone's data plan for mobile banking and other secure transactions.
4. Fortify your passwords
Help strengthen the security of your accounts by creating strong passwords for online banking, as well as your other accounts.
Start with these three best practices:
Aim for at least 10 to 12 characters, but 16 to 20 is even better
Avoid common names, places and dictionary words
Use a passphrase - a long sentence-like string using a random mixture of uppercase and lowercase letters along with numbers and symbols
Only complete financial transactions, like banking and shopping, on a trusted network with your own device that's protected by security software.
5. Watch what you share
Think twice about geotagging social posts. Your friends might love to see you eating pasta Bolognese in Bologna, but criminals can use that information for malicious purposes, like targeting your home when away, or in the world of generative AI, even using your photos to create deep fakes. Check your privacy settings to ensure you're only sharing posts with your followers instead of the entire digital world.
6. Know the signs of a scam
Take precautions so you don't walk right into fraudster's traps. Know the signs of common attacks like phishing and smishing, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
7. Be aware of your surroundings
Online isn't the only place criminals can capture your personal information. When talking on the phone, take note of your surroundings and make sure you’re not in earshot of someone while sharing sensitive information like credentials or credit card numbers. You should also watch out for shoulder surfers who could steal your financial information while you're grabbing that can't-miss deal.
8. If you're hacked, act quickly
Data breaches happen. If you suspect your financial information has been compromised, time is of the essence. Contact your bank immediately. They can freeze your account and minimize the impact.
Stay alert, stay safe
Although data breaches, scams and fraud are becoming more commonplace, we're here to be an ally for your privacy and security. Playing an active role in your own protection, combined with following security best practices, can help you feel safe and secure.
