As technology advances, so does the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information. Cybersecurity can seem like an impossible task for everyday people. But it’s not only a job for the IT team. Everyone can play a part in keeping their organization’s data safe. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. It serves as a timely reminder that many ways to safeguard data exist. Following the basics can greatly affect how secure your network remains.
What Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?
Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CAM) is an annual initiative held every October. It promotes cybersecurity awareness and education. It aims to empower individuals and organizations by giving them knowledge and resources. It helps people strengthen their defenses against cyber threats. CAM started as a U.S. initiative, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Then, it quickly spread around the globe. Two agencies lead the month:
· National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA)
· Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
This collaborative effort involves various stakeholders. Government agencies, industry leaders, and cybersecurity experts all come together. The goal is to raise awareness about cyber risks and best practices.
This Year’s Theme
This is CAM’s 20th year, and to celebrate, the theme revolves around looking at how far cybersecurity has come. As well as how far it has to go. This year, CAM focuses on four key best practices of cybersecurity. These are:
- Enabling multi-factor authentication.
- Using strong passwords and a password manager.
- Updating software.
- Recognizing and reporting phishing.
Let’s look at these four best practices of good cyber hygiene.
Essential Cyber Hygiene: 4 Keys to a Strong Defense
Central to Cybersecurity Awareness Month is the promotion of essential cyber hygiene practices. We follow good hygiene to maintain physical health. For example, we brush our teeth every day. Cybersecurity also requires ongoing good hygiene practices to secure the online environment. These practices form the foundation of a strong cybersecurity defense. They help both individuals and organizations.
Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a vital layer of security to all logins. A hacker usually can’t breach an account protected by MFA. This is the case even if the cyber crook has the password. Microsoft says MFA can block 99.9% of attempted account compromise attacks. With that strong track record, everyone should use it on every login.
Strong Passwords & a Password Manager
Passwords remain a critical aspect of securing online accounts. Despite the increased use of biometrics, passwords still rule. Encourage your team members to use strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names. Companies can help by setting strong password enforcement rules. This requires a strong password before it’s accepted in a system. For example, you may set up a policy that requires a password to have:
- At least 12 characters
- At least 1 upper case letter
- At least 1 lowercase letter
- At least 1 number
- At least 1 symbol
Updating Software
Outdated software creates vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Regularly update operating systems, applications, and firmware. This ensures the latest security patches are in place. Automating updates is a good way to ensure they’re done promptly. Companies can use endpoint device managers to handle updates across all employee devices. Managers like Intune simplify the process and enhance endpoint security.
Recognizing and Reporting Phishing
Phishing attacks are a common vector for cyber threats. Train your team to identify phishing emails, suspicious links, and unsolicited attachments. Please encourage them to verify the sender’s email address. As well as never provide sensitive information unless certain of the recipient’s authenticity. It’s also important to educate employees about phishing beyond email. Phishing via text messages has been increasing significantly. Some criminals phish via direct messages on social media platforms. Another important aspect of phishing awareness is to report phishing. If it’s reported, other employees know to avoid that phishing trap. The organization’s IT team also needs to know so they can take action to mitigate the threat. Be sure to inform employees how to report a phishing email when they suspect one.
We Can Help You Put the Best Cyber Hygiene Practices in Place
CAM offers a valuable opportunity to refocus on the significance of cybersecurity and prioritize essential cyber hygiene practices. Building a culture of cybersecurity awareness within your team is important. It can be the difference between vulnerability and resilience. Need some help ensuring a more secure and resilient future? Our team of experts can get you going on the basics. Once those are in place, your organization will be more productive and secure.
Contact us today to schedule a chat.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
