It’s that time of the year again!

Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is commemorated as a joint effort by the government and industry. This is to ensure that every American has access to the resources they need to stay safer and more secure online. Organizations, like the National Cyber Security Alliance, share tools and resources to help all Americans practice cyber security.

Enable MFA

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds that necessary second check to verify your identity when logging in to your accounts. By requiring multiple methods of authentication, your account is further protected from being compromised. Even if a bad actor hijacks your password! In this way, MFAs make it more difficult for password cracking tools to enable attackers to break into accounts.

Use strong passphrases/password manager

This may seem obvious, but all too often securing strong passphrases/password managers are overlooked. People spending more time online during the pandemic has certainly contributed to more bad actors prowling for accounts to attack. Using long, complex, and unique passwords is a good way to stop your account from being hacked. An easy way of keeping track and remembering your passwords is by using a password manager.

Perform software updates

When a device prompts that it’s time to update the software, it may be tempting to simply click postpone, and ignore the message. However, having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system on devices is one of the best defenses against online threats. So, don’t wait – update.

Do your research

Common sense is a crucial part of maintaining good online hygiene. An intuitive step to stay safe online is to do some research before downloading anything new. This includes apps!  Before downloading any new learning app on your device, make sure that it’s by checking who created the app, what the user reviews say, and if there are any articles published online about the app’s privacy and security features.

Check your settings

Be diligent in double checking your privacy and security settings and be aware who can access your documents. This extends from Google docs, to Zoom calls, and beyond. For meetings on Zoom, for example, create passwords so only those invited to the session can attend, and restrict who can share their screen or files with the rest of the attendees.

Being cyber smart and maintaining stellar online hygiene is the best way to protect yourself and others from cyber-attacks. No single tip is foolproof but taken together they can make a real difference for taking control of your online presence. Following these tips is also easy, and free. By taking preventive measures and making a habit of practicing online safety, you can decrease your odds of being hacked exponentially – and prevent lost time and money, as well as annoyance.

To learn more about Cybersecurity Awareness Month or to find out how you can get involved and do your part visit the National Cyber Security Alliance website. #BeCyberSmart