Don’t Wait for a Cybersecurity Breach: 8 Essential Tips to Share with Employees

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month kicks off this October, it’s the perfect time to revisit the importance of good cyber hygiene. With cyber threats on the rise, staying vigilant at work and home is more crucial than ever. Cybercrime has dramatically increased, with the FBI reporting a record number of complaints last year alone. In fact, the cost of cybercrime is projected to hit $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, according to Cybercrime Magazine.

For CISOs on the front lines of cybersecurity, these threats are a daily reality. However, it’s easy to forget that employees may not be as attuned to these dangers, especially when dealing with them in their personal lives. From phishing scams to data breaches, everyone is vulnerable, and a single slip can have serious consequences.

Recent incidents serve as a reminder that these threats are very real and often hit close to home. Whether you’re a seasoned cybersecurity professional looking to help your employees or just trying to protect your own personal information, here are some key tips to give you the best chance of avoiding a cybersecurity breach.

Best Practices to Protect Yourself from a Cybersecurity Breach

1. Freeze or Lock Your Credit Report

One of the primary concerns in the aftermath of a data breach is identity theft. Hackers often sell stolen information to individuals who open credit cards or financial accounts in your name. Protect yourself by freezing or locking your credit report at all three major credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian).

The ability to freeze your credit was mandated by law, so it’s a free service, but it can be a bit cumbersome for some. An alternative is utilizing a paid service to apply a credit lock, which can be easier to manage. Whichever option you choose, remember to temporarily unfreeze or unlock your credit report when planning major purchases that require credit checks. And don’t forget to do the same for your spouse’s accounts.

2. Leverage Credit Monitoring Services

If you receive an offer for free credit monitoring after a breach, take it. Many companies affected by data breaches provide these services for a year or two at no cost to you. If you don’t already have credit monitoring in place, it’s a good idea to accept these offers and switch services every few years, as your data is likely to be stolen again at some point.

3. Practice Strong Password Hygiene

Passwords are a weak link in the security chain; hackers can crack them with powerful tools in just minutes. To strengthen your defenses, follow these simple guidelines:

• Use unique passwords for each of your critical accounts—those storing sensitive information beyond your name, password, and email address (i.e., home address, SSN, credit card, etc.).
• Make passwords at least 14 characters long, combining lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Better yet, use a longer passphrase (20+ characters) that is easy to remember but complex enough to deter attacks (i.e., TheHorseJumpedOverTheM00n!). Length trumps complexity, and never include a phrase copied directly from a book.
• Never share your passwords with others.

4. Utilize Password Managers

Remembering complex or long passwords is a challenge. Password managers like Keeper, LastPass, and 1Password can generate and store them securely, so you don’t have to. These tools can also share passwords with family members if needed. Implementing a password manager is a smart step toward improving your password hygiene.

5. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Although multi-factor authentication (MFA) can sometimes be annoying, it’s essential to use it for your online accounts that offer it. Even if a hacker has your password, they’ll need a second form of identification, like an SMS or an authenticator app code, to gain access. Authenticator apps like Microsoft Authenticator or Authy are more secure than text messages. If you use one of these apps on your phone, just be sure to back up your app configuration to avoid being locked out of your accounts if you lose that device.

6. Backup Your Data Regularly

In the event of malware or ransomware attacks, having your data backed up is crucial. Use cloud services or external USB drives to keep copies of important files, including family photos and documents. Regular backups can save you from losing precious data if hackers compromise your devices.

7. Stay Alert to Phishing Scams

Phishing remains the top method hackers use to infiltrate systems. While major email providers have anti-phishing measures in place, they’re not foolproof. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, especially those asking you to click on links or provide personal information. Always verify the legitimacy of the sender before taking any action.

8. Close or Delete Unused Accounts

Old, unused accounts present unnecessary security risks. Reduce your attack surface by closing or deleting accounts you no longer use. This minimizes the chances of hackers accessing your data through outdated and forgotten services.

Stay Vigilant and Informed

Countless breaches happen every day. By following these simple yet effective best practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyber threats.

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let’s all commit to being more cyber-savvy and protecting ourselves from those who seek to do us harm. Whether you’re at work or home, these tips can help you stay safe in an increasingly digital world.

For more tips and resources, follow MicroAge on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook. We’ll be sharing helpful cybersecurity tips every day throughout October to keep you informed and secure. Stay safe, stay aware, and let’s make cybersecurity a priority together!

Let’s talk

Contact your MicroAge Account Executive here or at (800) 544-8877 to learn how our Managed Security Services can protect you.