Takeaways
- Stay alert to cyber threats at all times.
- Be aware that ID security threats can also occur manually.
- Practice safety tips for improved ID and information security.
Introduction
Every day, there are “bad actors” trying to steal your information for their own gain. You hear about it on the news, the radio, from friends, and from employers warning you to stay vigilant against fraud. The worst way to find out, however, is receiving an email or letter stating that your identity or login credentials have been compromised. Don’t let these malicious individuals steal your information. Stay diligent and alert by following these tips to reduce the chances of becoming a cyber victim.
- 2-Factor Authentication: Use two-factor authentication when creating online accounts. This makes it harder for someone to gain access to your accounts.
- Working in Public Places: Be mindful of your surroundings when working in public. People may look over your shoulder to steal information. Find a place where they can’t easily see your screen, or use a privacy screen that makes it difficult for anyone behind you to view your work.
- Protecting Transmissions: Invest in a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your data from being intercepted in public and private places.
- Emails with Links: Read emails carefully before clicking on any links or providing information.
- Verify the sender. If you don’t recognize the person or company, be cautious.
- Look for misspelled words or incorrect grammar. These can be red flags.
- Asking for Personal Information: Be wary of companies that call asking for personal or account information. Hang up and visit their official website to get their phone number. Call back to verify the request.
- Phone or Electronic Payments: Government agencies and legitimate companies won’t call you to demand immediate payment over the phone or electronically. If you receive such a call, hang up and contact the company through their official website.
- Multiple User IDs: Create different user IDs for your online accounts, especially for critical accounts like bank, insurance, or trading platform institutions. This minimizes the impact if one of your accounts is compromised.
- Coffee Table Passwords: Don’t leave written passwords lying around on desks or counters. Instead, store them in a drawer in your bedroom or, better yet, in a safe.
- PIN for Passwords: Enable and use a PIN for accessing passwords from your password manager. This adds an extra layer of security in case your computer is compromised.
- Update Your Passwords: Change your passwords at least twice a year. For enhanced security, consider updating them quarterly. Regularly changing passwords makes it harder for someone to steal your login credentials. By the time they crack your protection and sell your data on the black market, it might be too late. You’ve changed your login credentials.
Summary
The best way to reduce the likelihood of your data being compromised is to be cautious when reading emails or visiting websites that ask you to click on links. Make sure you think carefully about what you’re doing and verify the legitimacy of your actions. Stay alert to your surroundings, both in public places and at work. Don’t type or read sensitive information without screen protection or privacy, and handle such tasks when the timing is right.
Lastly, always use strong passwords and consider getting a VPN. For more tips on securing your documents and passwords online, read our blog “How to Secure and Protect Your Documents and Passwords Online.” Regularly changing your passwords at least twice a year adds another layer of protection.