As most of us start winding down for the Holidays, here are some top tips for staying secure over the Festive period.
1. Out of Office & Email Notification
For those of us lucky enough to have a break over the festive holidays don’t forget to switch on your Out of Office. Also don’t forget to switch off email notifications on your phone. The last thing you want is to be inundated with emails tempting you into drift back into work mode – enjoy the break!
2. Update Software and Firmware:
Before diving into the holiday spirit, ensure that all your devices (computers, smartphones, routers, etc.) are updated with the latest software and firmware. These updates often contain security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
3. Strong Passwords & Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
Revisit your passwords and make sure they’re robust. Consider using a password manager to create unique, complex passwords for different accounts. Enable 2FA wherever possible for an extra layer of security.
4. Beware of Phishing Scams:
The holidays are prime time for phishing attempts. Be cautious of emails, messages, or links asking for personal information, especially if they seem urgent or offer unbelievable deals. When in doubt, verify the source before clicking.
5. Public Wi-Fi Awareness:
Avoid logging into sensitive accounts or conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi networks. If necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and enhance security.
6. Backup Your Data:
Regularly back up important data to an external hard drive or a cloud service. In case of any cyber incidents or data loss, having backups can save you from significant hassle and loss.
7. Review Privacy Settings:
Take a moment to review the privacy settings on social media platforms. Limit who can see your holiday plans, personal information, or location. Be mindful of sharing sensitive details publicly.
Switch your attention to home
8. Secure Online Shopping:
When making online purchases, shop from reputable websites with secure payment gateways. Look for the padlock symbol in the address bar and ‘https://’ in the URL before entering any payment information.
9. Monitor Financial Statements:
Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity. Report any unauthorized transactions immediately to your financial institution.
10. Educate Family Members:
Inform your family members, especially kids, about the importance of online safety. Teach them about potential risks, safe browsing habits, and the need to seek permission before downloading apps or clicking on unfamiliar links.
11. Update Privacy Settings on Devices:
Review and adjust privacy settings on smart devices, such as voice assistants or smart TVs. These devices can collect data, so configure settings according to your comfort level.
12. Stay Informed:
Keep yourself updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and news. Awareness is your best defence against evolving cyber threats.
13. Emergency Preparedness:
Have a plan in place in case of a cyber incident. Know whom to contact and how to respond if you suspect a security breach or encounter suspicious activity.
By following these IT tips, you can enjoy a secure and stress-free holiday season, safeguarding your digital presence while embracing the festive cheer!
Most importantly CTO would like to wish all our lovely customers and readers a very Merry Christmas! We appreciate your loyalty and look forward to many more years working together.
Thank you from the CTO Team.
