Spring is in the air, inspiring people to clean up and clear out the clutter. The one area many overlook isn’t a basement corner or a forgotten closet; but your digital devices. We use our devices to shop, scroll through social media, bank, work and all things in between. The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) remind everyone that while clearing out the physical clutter is important—don’t neglect the digital data clutter that lives on your electronic devices.
As many businesses and their employees are still working from home, focusing on cybersecurity and protecting sensitive information is critical. NCSA has advice on how to keep your private information safe .
If you have extra time in your day, it may be a good time to give yourself a digital makeover. Taking simple, proactive steps will go a long way in safeguarding against potentially disruptive issues – like identity theft, loss of funds, or credit card fraud that can cause mayhem by compromising your data. Take the time to practice a few precautionary measures and you’ll have greater peace of mind – not only this spring but all year round.
The NCSA and BBB encourage people to check their smartphones, laptops, tablets and take a few minutes to review these tips.
- Lock down your login: Security is critical to protecting accounts used for work and home. Ensure passphrases for each account are lengthy, unique and safely stored. Enable 2-factor authentication on all accounts that offer it.
- Update your system and software: Avoid procrastination! The most current software, web browsers and operating systems are some of the easiest and fastest ways to protect your most sensitive assets.
- Back it up: Protect your personal and workplace data by making electronic copies – or backups – of your most important files. Use the 3-2-1 rule to help guide you: 3 backup copies, two different media types, and one offline in a separate location.
- Clean up your online presence: When did you last use all the apps on your phone or tablet? Do you know the settings on all social media accounts that check in with friends and family? Check up on all your accounts. Then, control your role by ensuring you know who has administrative access to your accounts. Keep your passwords private.
- Be careful what you share: Quizzes on social media are fun, and keeping in touch is necessary. However, questions on social media might give away too much information about you, your location, or your family.
If you’re a small business owner, in addition to following the above-listed tips, BBB encourages you to take time to establish, update and communicate policies and procedures around topics like record retention. It’s imperative that a cybersecurity strategy is in place and used by all employees. BBB has tips on BBB.org/bizhq on how to avoid online scams when working from home.