Embracing Cybersecurity in the Digital Age: Protecting Hamilton and Burlington
In today’s digitally connected era, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. As technology advances, so do the threats in the online world. Often, our own actions put us most at risk of a cyberattack or online scam, such as using weak passwords or having lax security policies. The mindset of “This won’t happen to me” contributes to the fact that human error is responsible for approximately 88% of data breaches.
The National Cybersecurity Alliance and CybSafe are actively working to correct poor cyber hygiene. Each year, they publish a report on cybersecurity attitudes and behaviors to educate both individuals and businesses on securing their digital landscapes.
This year’s study surveyed over 6,000 people across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Germany, France, and New Zealand. It examined knowledge of cybersecurity risks, best practices, and challenges faced. The report reveals some eye-opening insights about how people perceive and respond to cyber threats, and what they can do to improve their cybersecurity posture. Here are some key findings from the report.
We Are Online… a Lot
It’s no surprise that 93% of study participants are online daily. (The other 7% didn't realize out that their phones were also internet devices.) The number of logins we create continues to expand, especially those considered “sensitive.” Sensitive accounts hold personal information that could be harmful if stolen. Nearly half (47%) of respondents have ten or more sensitive online accounts, which amplifies risk, especially if the same password is used for multiple accounts.
Online Security Makes People Frustrated
Most people (84%) feel that online security is a priority, but as many as 39% feel frustrated and nearly the same amount feel intimidated. It can seem impossible to stay ahead of hackers. Just over half of people believe that digital security is under their control, leaving many feeling vulnerable. However, there are best practices you can implement to safeguard your online accounts effectively:
Enabling multi-factor authentication on your accounts
Using an email spam filter to catch phishing emails
We use Checkpoint Harmony as the tool for our clients in Hamilton and Burlington.
Adding a DNS filter to block malicious websites
All of our managed services customers have a Fortigate in place with a full Fortiguard Subscription that covers both web filtering AND DNS filtering.
Using strong password best practices
People Need More Access to Cybersecurity Training
One way to reduce human errors in cybersecurity is through training. The survey found that only 26% of respondents had access to cybersecurity training.
This lack of training is more pronounced among those not actively employed, but even employed individuals need more training and encouragement. Only 53% reported having access to cybersecurity awareness training and using it.
Employers in Hamilton and Burlington can significantly reduce their risk of data breaches by enhancing their security awareness training programs. There is also a large opportunity to provide more training to those retired or not actively employed. Several of our clients have senior employees or partners that have retired that we STILL provide IT services too to ensure they remain protected.
Cybercrime Reporting Is Increasing
Over a quarter (27%) of survey participants said they had been a victim of cybercrime. The types of cybercrimes reported include:
Phishing (47%)
Online dating scams (27%)
Identity theft (26%)
Online Security Best Practices to Reduce Your Risk
1. Strong, Unique Passwords:
Create strong, unique passwords for each online account.
Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
Enhance your account security with multi-factor authentication.
MFA adds an extra barrier to unauthorized access, even for compromised passwords.
3. Regular Software Updates:
Keep all your software, including operating systems and mobile apps, up to date.
4. Beware of Phishing Attacks:
Exercise caution when clicking on links or opening attachments. We always say especially from unknown sources but most of these attacks are from sources that you will know that have themselves been hacked. So really, just don't click on anything you aren't expecting. And if you know the person that sent it, phone them and ask what it is, and why they sent it before opening.
Verify the legitimacy of emails and websites by checking for subtle signs, such as misspelled URLs or unfamiliar sender addresses.
5. Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks:
Ensure you connect to a secure and password-protected Wi-Fi network.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi. You have NO idea how easy it is to spoof a public Wi-Fi signal and start harvesting data.
6. Data Backup:
Regularly back up important data to an external device or a secure cloud service.
7. Use a managed EDR or Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software:
Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices.
We believe in either Sentinel One or Crowdstrike
8. Be Mindful of Social Media Settings:
Review and adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms.
Limit the amount of personal information visible to the public.
9. Secure Your Personal Devices:
Lock your devices with strong passwords or biometric authentication.
10. Educate and Stay Informed:
Educate yourself and your team through cybersecurity awareness programs. This fosters a culture of vigilance and preparedness.
Schedule Cybersecurity Awareness Training Today
A little education on cybersecurity goes a long way toward protecting your data. Our experts in Hamilton and Burlington can provide the security training you need. We’ll help you fortify your defenses against phishing, scams, and cyberattacks.
Contact us today to schedule a chat and enhance your cybersecurity posture.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
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