By Digital Transformation & Information System Management Consultant, Jerry Lim Yishun
Every year on August 1st, people worldwide celebrate World Wide Web Day. This day honors the birth of the World Wide Web and its transformative impact on our lives. It’s a chance to appreciate the internet’s incredible power in connecting people, ideas, and information globally.
As we mark this occasion, it’s essential to recognize the challenges the web poses. Issues such as online privacy, cybersecurity, misinformation, and the digital divide must be addressed to ensure the web remains a positive force.
Individuals, businesses, governments, and organizations all share the responsibility to use the web responsibly and ethically. Protecting user privacy, combating cyber threats, and promoting digital literacy are crucial for fostering a safe and inclusive online environment for everyone.
Absolutely, maintaining cybersecurity is vital in today’s digital age. Here are eight essential tips to help safeguard your online presence and data, including how to identify threats to your security and reduce your vulnerability to cyberattacks.
Use Trusted, Secure Networks and Devices
Avoid using public computers or free Wi-Fi, as they may expose you to Man-in-the-Middle (MiTM) attacks, which are serious security risks. MiTM attacks allow attackers to intercept sensitive information like login credentials, account details, or credit card numbers.
Use a Secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) Connection
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) enhances your online anonymity by changing your IP address and assigning you a new one from its database. This makes you invisible online, preventing online tracking and ensuring that no one can trace your activities through your IP address.
Don’t Click on Unsafe Links
Phishing attacks are a form of social engineering where attackers send fraudulent messages or emails designed to trick you into disclosing sensitive information. Be cautious if you receive messages or emails asking for personal information. Verify the source before sharing any details.
Use Strong Passwords
Passwords should be long, strong, and unique, and never revealed to anyone. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. Ensure passwords are different for each account and for work and home. Avoid allowing apps or websites to remember your passwords.
Use a Password Manager
A password manager simplifies your security by requiring you to remember only one master password. It generates and stores strong, unguessable passwords like VjwF(wj]]SH1eeuw for all your online accounts, and automatically fills them in for you.
Use Poetic Passwords or Passphrases
Create passwords that include lowercase letters, uppercase letters, digits, and symbols. Using a longer combination of characters significantly increases password strength and makes it more difficult to crack.
Log Out After Transacting on a Secure Website
Always log out after completing transactions on bank, merchant, or credit card sites by using the “log out” or “exit” link. Simply closing the browser does not log you out, leaving your account vulnerable to hacking. Subsequent users could access your account information, purchase details, and payment methods.
Safeguard Your Privacy on Social Media
Be cautious with your social media updates. Avoid posting unnecessary status updates, especially about vacations while you are still away. Sharing your absence can alert potential intruders that your home is unoccupied.
Remember that cyber safety is an ongoing process, requiring constant vigilance and proactive measures to protect your digital identity and data.
GICG cybersecurity services can help your organization implement robust cybersecurity solutions that reduce your vulnerability to cyberattacks and safeguard your critical information systems.
Find out how GICG can support you in your journey to cyber security: https://bit.ly/GICGcyber
