Safer Internet Day:
Safer Internet Day is an annual event celebrated on the second day of the second week of February. Founded in 2004, its primary goal is to raise awareness and promote the safe and responsible use of digital technology, particularly among children and young people.
We thought we would use this opportunity to highlight some general important aspects of online safety and provide you with 10 tips on how to remain safe online – as well as keeping your personal devices safe!
1. Keep Software Up-to-Date
Regularly updating your operating systems, web browsers, and software applications is crucial. These updates often contain security patches that address vulnerabilities and protect against potential cyber threats.
2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
Create strong, unique passwords for each online account. Combine a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password. You can read more about 2FA in our blog post.
4. Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts
Beware of suspicious emails, messages, or calls asking for personal information or login credentials. Verify the source before clicking on any links or providing sensitive data. Educate yourself and your employees on identifying phishing attempts.
We’ve recently covered phishing in our blog post, here.
5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Protect your home or office Wi-Fi network with a strong password and encryption. Change the default network name (SSID) and disable remote administration to minimise the risk of unauthorised access.
6. Use a Firewall
Enable a firewall on your computer or network router to filter out potentially malicious incoming connections. This adds an extra layer of defense against unauthorised access to your devices.
7. Regularly Backup Data
Frequently back up your important data to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another secure location. In the event of a cyberattack or data loss, you can easily restore your files.
8. Install Antivirus Software
Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated. This software can detect and remove malware such as viruses, and other malicious threats from your devices.
9. Educate Yourself and Your Team
Stay informed about the latest online threats and educate yourself and your employees about best practices for online safety. Regularly conduct training sessions to raise awareness and promote a culture of cybersecurity.
10. Limit Personal Information Sharing
Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Only provide necessary details on trusted websites and social media platforms. Be mindful of the information you post and adjust privacy settings accordingly.
Conclusion:
Safer Internet Day plays a vital role in promoting online safety and security. By following these ten essential tips, you can better protect yourself and your business from various online threats.
Remember, a safer internet starts with individual responsibility and awareness. Let’s work together to create a secure digital environment for everyone.
If you’re looking for IT support, you can reach out to us to discuss your IT needs, today!
Happy Safer Internet Day!