Data privacy and security require a layered approach to ensure confidential information remains confidential. Let’s review a few ways you can help protect data, and by extension, people.
Learn the Warning Signs
Attackers will attempt to steal data through various methods, including phone calls, emails, and other forms of communication. Many of their efforts can be identified by staying alert for warning signs. Urgent requests, threatening language, and unexpected links or attachments are all indicators of scams to be aware of.
Avoid Assumptions
Remember, skepticism is your friend. The unfortunate reality is that modern technology allows cybercriminals to convincingly impersonate the people we know and trust. Avoid assuming that someone is who they claim to be or that any particular scenario or request is real. Take time to verify before revealing any confidential information.
Protect Your Access
Gaining access to accounts and networks is a primary objective of attackers. It is therefore vital to protect your access by using strong, unique passwords for every account and never sharing your passwords or other forms of access, such as ID badges, with anyone for any reason.
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, is a vital security tool for keeping accounts secure. It requires at least two forms of authentication before access to an account is granted. Implement MFA wherever it’s available. For even stronger security, consider using a
phishing-resistant MFA option, such as a USB stick or token. This is a much better process than having MFA codes delivered via text or email, which can be stolen.
Follow Policy
Protecting data is sometimes as simple as following organizational policies. These are designed to minimize risk to data and people and prevent authorized access to confidential information. Failure to follow policy, whether intentionally or otherwise, could undermine everyone’s security efforts.
Find more helpful cybersecurity tips here, on MyHII.
