Cybersecurity, Simplified
We live in a digital world, from paying bills and shopping to chatting with friends, most of our daily routines happen online. But with convenience comes risk. Cybersecurity isn’t just for IT professionals anymore; it’s something everyone should practice.
The good news? Staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple habits that can make a big difference.
1. Use a Password Manager
Trying to remember every password is impossible, and reusing the same one across sites is risky. A password manager solves both problems. It securely stores all your logins and helps you create strong, unique passwords for every account.
You only need to remember one good password. The one that will unlock your manager.
Some trusted options include:
- Keeper
- Bitwarden
With a password manager, even if one site is compromised, the rest of your accounts stay safe. Click here to learn about creating strong passwords.
2. Keep Antivirus Software Active and Updated
Think of antivirus software as your computer’s immune system. It detects and blocks harmful programs before they cause damage.
Computer Guild’s antivirus of choice is:
- Sophos
Always make sure it’s up to date and running in the background. If it flags something, trust it and double-check before overriding or ignoring the alert.
3. Browse Smarter
When you want to visit a specific site like Amazon, type the address directly into your browser’s address bar (amazon.com) instead of searching for it. Fake or sponsored links in search results can lead to scam sites that look legitimate.
Be cautious of ads at the top of search results; not every “official-looking” link is trustworthy.
4. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding an extra layer of protection to your accounts is quick and powerful. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) requires a second step. It’s usually a code sent to your phone or an authentication app before logging in.
If an account offers 2FA, enable it. It’s one of the easiest ways to stop hackers, even if they have your password.
5. Shop Safely Online
Online shopping is convenient, but take a few precautions:
- Use virtual credit cards if your bank offers them. They can create a temporary card number for each purchase.
- Avoid saving card info on websites whenever possible.
- Stick to trusted retailers and be skeptical of prices that seem too good to be true.
6. Lock Your Devices
Your phone and computer hold personal data, financial accounts, and more. Always:
- Use a screen lock or biometric login on your phone.
- Set a password or PIN on your computer.
It’s a small step that prevents big headaches if your device is lost or stolen.
Remember
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few small, consistent habits can protect your information and your peace of mind:
- Use a password manager.
- Keep antivirus updated.
- Browse carefully.
- Enable 2FA.
- Shop safely online.
- Lock your devices.
The online world is full of opportunities, and with a few precautions, you can stay safe and secure.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us: 269-373-1160