Cyber Security Awareness
Cyber security is the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks.
Basic Checklist
- Keep all your software up-to-date
- Install a reliable antivirus solution
- Enhance your security with a product that can block attacks antivirus can’t detect
- Use strong passwords and change them often
- Activate and use two-step verification where available
- Avoid oversharing information on social media
- Back up your data. Do it often. Back up in several places
- Never open emails from unknown senders • Never download or open attachments sent by unknown senders
- Keep your financial information safe and don’t share it with anyone
- Avoid untrusted websites and don’t click on suspicious banners or links
- Adjust the privacy and security settings in your browser and apps
Malware
Threats
Software designed to compromise a device/network Examples:
- Worm/virus
- Botnet
- Banking Trojan
- Ransomware
Best Practices
- Learn to identify phishing emails
- Exercise caution with links
- Do not download or click suspicious links or files
- Keep software up-to-date
- Back files up regularly
Spear Phishing
Threats
Spear-phishing is a targeted attempt to steal sensitive information such as account credentials or financial information from a specific victim, often for malicious reasons.
- Common cause of data breaches
- Targeted emails
- Sent to small groups or individuals
- Use social engineering tactics
Best Practices
- Check the sender
- Look out for warning signs
- Think before you click or take action
- Never hand over sensitive info
Malicious Links
Threats
- Anchor may hide true destination
- Hacked landing pages
- Copycat domains (exampel.com)
- Shortened links
Best Practices
- Always check the destination
- Desktop: hover over anchor
- Mobile: hold for several seconds
Password Security
Threats
- Susceptible to:
- - Brute force
- - Hacking
- - Malware
- - Phishing
- - Data breach
Best Practices
- Enable MFA where possible
- Effective passwords are:
-
- Long
- Complex
- Unique
- Rotating
Browsing in Public
Threats
- Unsecured networks
- - “Man in the Middle”
- Visual hacking
Best Practices
- Avoid public wireless networks
- Use reputable VPN
- Be mindful of surroundings
- Precautionary apps
- - “Find my phone”
- - “Remote wipe”