5 simple ways to upgrade your everyday cybersecurity

Cyber threats in Canada are on the rise. From identity theft through to ransomware, attacks aren’t just hitting businesses – they’re increasingly affecting households too. The good news is that you don’t need advanced tech skills or expensive security software to stay safe. Here are five straightforward steps that you can follow to stay safe online and protect your personal information, finances, and devices from common threats.

Layered security: Passphrases and multi-factor methods

The days of short, simple passwords are over. A passphrase made up of four or five unrelated words is far stronger than a birthday date or ‘the name of your first pet’. Add in multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an extra barrier, especially for your banking, email, and social media accounts. Imagine if a hacker guesses your password – without being able to pass a second step (like an authentication app, or a code sent to your phone) they’ll still be fully locked out.

Keep devices and software updated and patched

One popular method that cybercriminals use to gain entry into networks is to exploit old software since it often has known weaknesses. However, you can easily close these gaps by enabling automatic updates on your computer, phone, router, and smart home gadgets. Updates can be annoying, but think of them as patching holes in a roof before the rain gets in. Just remember to back up any critical files before running the update so you can restore them if something goes wrong.

Use backups and consider encrypting them

Ransomware attacks often lock you out of your files. Do regular backups – both to an external drive and to the cloud – so that you don’t lose cherished photos or important documents. And for extra protection, encrypt your backups so they’re useless to anyone else. Use services like free cloud storage so that you can easily keep your files safe, secure, and accessible no matter where you are.

Secure your home network and Internet of Things (IoT) devices

Your Wi-Fi router is the front door to your digital life. Take a few minutes to change the default password, enable WPA3 security if your router supports it, and set up a guest network for smart devices like cameras, speakers, and video doorbells (IoT tech vulnerabilities raise the risk of breaches). This way, even if one gadget is compromised, the rest of your network stays safe and secure.

Learn to spot phishing and social engineering

Not every scam involves fancy code and using manipulating tech to gain entry to your information – many rely on psychological tricks social engineering. For example, phishing emails, scam texts (‘smishing’), and fake phone calls all aim to get you to hand over personal details voluntarily. Your best defence is to stay alert and cautious: verify senders before you click on links in emails, avoid oversharing personal details such as addresses on social media, and adjust your privacy settings to the most strict levels. Simply pausing before you click can make all the difference.

Simple cybersecurity changes, stronger protection

Staying safe online doesn’t require complicated tools. With stronger passphrases, timely updates, secure backups, a protected home network, and a sharp eye for scams, you can take control of your cybersecurity. Just adopting these simply everyday habits will go a long way to keeping your digital life private and secure.

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