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The WFH (Work From Home) Arrangement has led to employees being vulnerable to cyberattacks.
The Coronavirus pandemic has immensely impacted all aspects of our lives— our jobs, relationships, health, and safety. This situation has definitely been overwhelming for most with the continuous fluctuation on the number of cases, border controls, and the virus’ new strain. With all of this in mind, some people unconsciously neglect cybersafety. Are you really safe in your own home?
I’m at home… Am I still at risk?
Recent data showed that 46% of global businesses have faced at least one cybersecurity threat. Within three consecutive months from June, big corporations like Honda , Garmin , and Canon reportedly fell victim to ransomware attacks which have caused them millions of dollars. Apart from that, personal and professional Coronavirus-related scams grew tenfold in the past months and are linked to people’s bank accounts, among other private data. After all those alarming events, the answer is yes. Your data is more vulnerable than ever. As more companies require working from home, more victims fall prey to cybercriminals who take advantage of people’s vulnerable and anxious states.
With this in mind, here are three data protection steps for starters:
Set Secure Passwords
Passwords are our first line of defense, but it’s common knowledge that passwords can easily be hacked, especially if you’re an open book. Below are the among the top passwords, according to CNN :
- 123456
- 123456789
- qwerty
- password
- 111111
As proven by the list above, some people can be very uncreative and hackable. However, your password not being on the list doesn’t necessarily make you safe either—especially if you constantly use personal dates like birthdays or anniversaries. Now that you know the obvious, stay away from it.
Instead, follow this guide to secure your first line of defense:
- Utilize at least 10-15 characters with a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols
- For both company and personal accounts, refrain from using the same password twice.
- For accounts that contain the most confidential information, use Two-Factor authentication to add another layer of security. Aside from requiring a password, two-factor authentications can ask for additional details like a code sent via SMS or biometrics.
Update Your Antivirus Software
A computer virus is much similar to a flu because it spreads from a host and immobilizes those it affected. It’s something to be wary of since the malicious program can damage important files, and (possibly) your whole computer by attaching itself to seemingly legitimate and harmless avenues. Your device might be swarmed with it, and you just don’t know it yet. In today’s digital era, cybercriminals don’t just prey on the gullible. They have stepped up their game and created new types of viruses which can be spread through the following:
- Email and SMS attachments
- File Downloads
- Social Media Links
- Ads
- Video and Audio files
When surfing the web or downloading files, it’s better to be safe than sorry. On top of verifying URLs and email addresses, refrain from clicking pop-up ads and downloading files you weren’t expecting.
With that, make use of a trusted antivirus software and constantly update, if needed. Antivirus software acts as effective barriers against hackers by removing spam ads and detected threats, as well as protecting your firewall, among other things.
Store Personal Data in a Private Vault
You may not realize it, but your phone is as vulnerable as your computer. Much like computers, mobile hackers go after emails, banking apps, or personal messages/photos which can be used for blackmail.
Below are some signs of a possibly hacked phone: * Decreased battery life * Noticeable activities/transactions you never engaged in on linked accounts * High data bill which can come from a malware running in the background
To avoid this from happening, store your personal data in a vault. Trusted by 75 million users, the Keepsafe app has prevented leaks of people’s personal information, photos, and documents. Don’t be fooled by its calculator disguise as this app is heavily encrypted and has unhackable military grade features.
Use Keepsafe for maximum protection download here!