Dr Richard Leblanc

What are best practices individuals can employ to lessen the chance of hacking of their computer or device?

Here is a quick “top 20 list,” based on part of an education session I have been providing to directors of company boards on cyber security.

1. Never click on unknown or non-credible emails, attachments or downloads.
2. Never click “save password.”
3. Never use the same password across multiple devices or accounts.
4. Use smart, strong passwords, and regularly update and change your passwords.
5. Have a second credit card that you use online, with a low limit.
6. Use two-step authentication whenever possible.
7. Install firewalls on all your computers and devices.
8. Always update your software.
9. Always logout at the end of your work-time.
10. Always install anti-virus, anti-spam and anti-spyware or adware programs.
11. Use only your own computers and devices.
12. Never leave your device or desktop computer unattended or accessible.
13. Have a professional validate all of the above and never give your password out.
14. Cover any cameras that are not in use.
15. Browse anonymously whenever possible.
16. Use secure, encrypted connections: https where “s” means “secure.”
17. Resist unencrypted, public wifi hotspots.
18. Back up your data in real time, twice as a fall-back.
19. Be careful what you store or send (crown jewels).
20. Always use a document shredder.

“Our entire lives are on the internet,” according to FBI Director, James Comey, adding “The internet is the most dangerous parking lot imaginable.”

Russian hackers initiated almost 2.5M attacks in a month, followed by Germany and Taiwan, in the Province of China, according to a 2013 report by the Centre for European Policy Studies.

The greater individuals are aware of steps that can be proactively taken, the less the chance that your property or data can be breached.

Posted by Richard Leblanc on Dec 14, 2014 at 5:08 pm in IT Governance |