Are You Cybersmart Online?
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month
In today’s world, most of us don’t leave our vehicles or homes unlocked. We protect them and the important things and people inside with locks, alarms and other security measures. Cybersecurity should be no different. Cybersecurity protects intangible valuables such as your identity, banking and health records, and other sensitive information from digital attacks and theft.
In addition to enjoying the crisp fall air, seasonal lattes, and decor, October is the time of year we recognize Cybersecurity Awareness Month. While protecting organizational information is a year-round practice at the Co-op, using our platform to share cybersecurity reminders across our team, membership and community is important.
With an ever-increasing reliance on connected devices and gadgets, we’d like to share a few cybersecurity tips to boost your cybersecurity efforts. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA), a department within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for strengthening cybersecurity and infrastructure protection, there are four primary ways to keep you and your loved ones safe online.
Implement multi-factor authentication (two-step verification).
This additional layer of protection makes it much harder for criminals to access your information.
For example, a hacker might need an email password AND access to an auto-generated code received on your cell phone to gain access.
Update your software frequently or turn on automatic updates.
This is one of the easiest ways to protect your personal data. When downloading a software update, ensure it comes directly from the company that created it. Be on the lookout for fake pop-ups that request urgent downloads.
Think before you click.
Most successful cyber attacks start with a phishing email. Avoid engaging with emails or text messages that appear too good to be true, require urgent action, are poorly crafted (misspellings/poor language) or include unusual requests.
Create strong passwords.
Use complex words and phrases and include symbols and numbers throughout. Consider using a password manager to save time, work across all devices, protect your identity and notify you of potential phishing websites.
Information is power.
Just as you would talk with your children about safety in the physical world, discuss ways to stay safe online. Help them understand the public nature of the internet. It’s important to understand early on that what is shared online stays online and is difficult (if not impossible) to take back. Children must learn to guard their personal information (and photos), especially on social networks, just as they would protect their money or valuables. As a parent or guardian, help your children understand and set privacy settings on social networks and gaming sites.
Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month the nudge you needed to refresh outdated passwords or set two-factor authentication on your accounts? Maybe it’s a push to sit with your teen and review their social media settings, or call an older relative to explain email phishing. Wherever there is room for improvement, we encourage you to use this month to “lock a few cyber-doors” and “set a few cyber-alarms” online. You’ll be glad you did!
