Your Ultimate Guide to Cyber Security

Cybersecurity has become a major issue in today’s world, where the sophistication of cybercriminals and constant attacks are unparalleled. Cyber attackers have a unique set of tools and skills at their disposal that enables them to discover security vulnerabilities in any web application, software, operating system, etc.

What Is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the process of protecting and defending internet-connected servers, computers, networks, company data, and electronic systems from malicious attackers who try to gain unauthorized access to the infrastructure.

Who Are Cybercriminals?

Cybercriminals are individuals who commit a crime online or via using advanced technology as the means to target an application attack. In most cases, cybercriminals are motivated by financial benefits.

Types of Cybercrimes:

There are a lot of crimes that categorize a person or a group classified as cybercriminals. The list of activities includes but is not limited to:

  • Identity theft
  • Ransomware
  • Software piracy
  • Credit card fraud
  • Unauthorized access
  • Cyberstalking events
  • Business email scams
  • Ignoring trademarks, copyrights
  • Compromising software licensing

However, a few tips and suggestions can help you safeguard your cyberspace, prevent your data and nosedive cyber attacks.

Cyber Security Tips & Suggestions

Set Up Find My Device Option

If you take your computer to a public place, you have to be extra cautious while using your device. Never leave it unattended or out of sight as it stores most of your information and sensitive data. If you accidentally forgot your computer somewhere and cannot find it anywhere around, it’s most probable that you have lost your computer.

If your Mac is running macOS Big Sur, you can add your device to the Find My app to locate and protect it if it’s lost or stolen. If you visit https://setapp.com/how-to/set-up-find-my-mac-and-protect-data, you will find what you need to know about setting up Find My Mac and protecting your data.

In Windows 10, you can set up and use the Find My Device feature to locate your laptop if it’s lost. These settings work on all Mac and Windows devices, including laptops, desktops, smartphones, and tablets.

Keep Your Software & OS Up to Date

Ransomware attacks are one of the major attack vectors for businesses as well as consumers. The first step that you can take towards improving your system security is to delete all redundant and outdated software applications and operating systems.

Deleting older applications will help you in removing critical vulnerabilities that cybercriminals use to access data or devices. For better security:

  • Turn on automatic software update.
  • Keep the web browser plugins such as Java, Flash updated.
  • Make sure that the web browser you use is receiving automatic security updates.

Both Windows and macOS release updates periodically that include security patches; so, make sure to download them as and when available.

Use Antivirus Application & Firewall

Installing an antivirus application makes your system immune against malware, spyware, Trojans, spam attacks, viruses, rootkits, phishing attacks, and similar online security threats. Antivirus software scans the computer to detect the virus and then works harder to remove it from the system.

A reliable antivirus application is a wall of defense against data thieves and hackers. Spam websites and pop-up ads are several among the most utilized gateways that viruses use for making their way to the device. A firewall is responsible for monitoring the incoming and outgoing traffic from the computer network.

Use Strong Passwords & Password Management Tools

Strong passwords are the key to online security as they keep your data protected against unauthorized access. While assigning passwords to online accounts, make sure to use a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Change your passwords at least once a year for better security.

You can even use password management tools to manage your passwords. A good password manager will allow you to generate strong passwords. You can specify parameters for passwords such as the length and the use of special characters while generating the passwords, and the software will match this criterion.

Tweak Web Browser Security Settings

Though web browsers help us explore the world, it also poses a threat to your computer and the data stored in it. When you are using the internet, the chances are that you might be using the web browser in its default settings. You should tweak web browser settings to implement better security measures.

If an unauthorized user enters your network and gains access to your data, it can steal valuable information and can cause permanent damage to the computer. To enhance browser security, you can download plugins to block ads, pop-ups, and malware domains and stay protected from outside threats. Do not click any suspicious link coming from an unknown sender.

You can prevent your computer and its data by staying a little alert to the activities taking place in your online surroundings.