Top 10 Tech Security Basics Every Person Should Follow
10 Tech Security Basics
IT Pro’s educate end users about computer and data security, but you can never have too many reminders of the basics. Here are some security tips and habits computer users should know. Consider this a quick way to audit your own security and help others you care about get the essentials down.
10. Watch Out for Social Engineering Attacks
Perhaps the biggest security concern is social engineering. This is how hackers and data thieves access your secure information through phishing. They will impersonate companies and people to trick you into thinking you are communicating and sending data to a trusted source. Be suspicious of all links, emails, phone calls, and other communications. Also know that most data breaches come from internal sources. You might be surprised at how easily even security experts can be fooled or hacked, so awareness is key.
9. Make Your Phone’s Lock Code Is More Secure
The default 4-digit PIN for iOS isn’t the most secure. You can make you phone more secure by changing your phone to a six digit pin. The same holds true for Android phones, the longer the PIN the better. Android phones also have lock screen tools to boost your phone’s security. At the very least, consider changing your PIN if it’s one of these.
8. Set Your Computer to Automatically BackUp Files
If you don’t make regular backups, all the data that is important to you is not secure. Setting up back up schedules are not as difficult as you might think, so there’s no excuse not to back up your files. The Windows operating system has built-in tools as well as Apple Macintosh’ Time Machine. There many third party backup solutions available to make sure your data is safe. There are online (cloud) solutions available such as iDrive, Acronis True Image and SOS Online Backup.
7. Install Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Viruses and malware are always a threat. We recommend using one antivirus tool, such as
Avira for Windows or Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac, as well as an anti-malware tool for on-demand
scanning, such as Malwarebytes.
6. Secure Your Wireless Router
Your internet modem and router are the first line of defense for your network. You should change your router’s default administrator login immediately and use WPA2 (AES) encryption to create a secure password.
5. Do Not Send Sensitive Information Over Email Unless It’s Encrypted
Sensitive information, such as your bank info, social security number, tax returns, or confidential business info, should never be sent over email without encryption. It’s too risky. Encrypt files with tools before sending them or use a service like super simple Proton Mail or encrypt your emails with PGP. Encrypt all the things.
4. Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi Without a VPN
Data security is very important when using public Wi-Fi. To stay safe on public Wi-Fi networks your best defense will be to use a VPN (virtual private network). If you’re using a VPN to stay anonymous, that won’t protect you if you’re careless with your identity. ExpressVPN, NordVPN IPVanishVPN and TunnelBear are just a few of the many VPN clients available.
3. Password Manager
Tricky passwords aren’t fooling anyone! We all should be using unique
passwords for each site and service we use. It’s impossible to remember every password so that’s where password managers come in. ZOHO, Dashlane, Stick Passwor and Keeper are just a few of man password keepers available on the market.
2. Use Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication offers the extra layer of security that protects you in case your password gets stolen. Use TwoFactorAuth to find out all the places you can turn two-factor authentication on. Don’t worry, if you lose your phone (most often used as the authentication device) you can still get back into your account if you plan ahead.
1. Regularly Review Your App Permissions and Security Settings
It’s still not enough to have all of the above set up, you have to still be vigilant and make sure your software is always up-to-date. We forget about stuff like updating the router firmware or cleaning up application permissions. We should make this all part of a regular routine. It’s important to clean up Facebook Twitter and other social media app permissions. You can use a site like MyPermissions to clean up multiple site services. Google sometimes offers free storage just for doing a security check, so you can even get a bonus for keeping up with your security needs!