5 simple cybersecurity rules to follow at home

Much has been written about the proper cyber security measures for those who work from remote locations.

While remote workers need to be aware and educated regarding precautions to protect against a data breach on their corporate business network, the same is true for those who use their devices primarily for leisure activities.

Taking some necessary precautions doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, there are many simple measures that anyone at home can use to avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime. These include…

1. Use longer passwords.

Most people use short, easy-to-remember passwords. While seemingly innocuous, simple, and insecure passwords are one of the most common ways you can be susceptible to a cyberattack.

Passwords that are easy to remember are also easy to hack.

A basic rule of thumb is to use passwords that always contain a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, as well as numbers. One or two symbols may be added for added security. Also avoid the temptation to write down all your passwords on a piece of paper.

2. Create different passwords for different accounts.

Many of us are guilty of using the same password on multiple accounts. The use of different passwords adds a high degree of difficulty for any cyber thief trying to break into one or more of his accounts.

Passwords should also be changed periodically. Again, this helps mitigate the damage if a password is stolen, because the hacker won’t have access to all of his other accounts.

3. Avoid placing sensitive information on social networks.

Many people unknowingly reveal private or confidential information on their public social channels.

Something as simple as posting a photo that you’re on vacation could prompt someone to break into your home.

Social media accounts should be kept private so only trusted friends and family can see your posts.

Never accept friend requests from people you don’t know, and be careful with people who have duplicate accounts.

Also be wary of direct messages from friends with weird links or requests for money. If your behavior seems out of the ordinary, or your way of communicating seems different, a hacker may have gained access to your account.

4. Become more deliberate about accepting app privileges.

When a new app is installed on your phone, it often requests access to certain privileges like your location.

This data collection may be necessary for the app to function, but some apps may be less reliable. Be especially careful with smaller and less common applications.

Before automatically granting privileges, consider whether the request makes sense. If not, do not grant access. Location sharing privileges are especially risky, as they can reveal where you are to anyone online.

5. Take a proactive approach with antivirus software.

Trusted antivirus software should be installed on all devices. Viruses can get to your computer in a number of ways, and good antivirus software will protect them. The goal is to prevent them from wreaking havoc on your system while remaining undetected.

Software must be kept up to date to protect against the latest digital threats. This includes avoiding leaving devices on standby for long periods of time.

Instead, computers need to be rebooted and updated regularly. This allows software vendors to update any potential flaws in their system and add the highest level of protection to maintain the optimum cybersecurity available.

Creating a series of cybersecurity precautions will protect you and your family, as well as your coworkers and your employer. Cyberattacks can happen at any time, and all it takes is one inadvertent mistake to be in serious trouble.