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Cyber Hygiene

In today’s digital landscape, we need to adapt a good cyber hygiene strategy to protect our personal and institutional data against cyber threats. Cyber hygiene practices also ensure that we are protecting and maintaining systems and devices appropriately. Establishing solid cyber hygiene practices should be as routine as brushing your teeth.

The following are some of the best practices regarding good cyber hygiene:

General

  • Automate software updates.

  • Restart your devices periodically.

  • Keep your Operating Systems and Apps patched and up to date.

  • Back up your critical files.

  • Check your financial statements and credit reports regularly.

  • Always think twice before clicking on links or opening attachments.

  • Don't click on unknown links or files.

  • Delete files, apps, and services that you no longer need.

  • Use encryption for sensitive data.

  • Use data wiping software to permanently delete files you don't need.

  • Familiarize yourself with the security and privacy settings of your social media sites.

  • Keep your private information private.

  • Think before posting about yourself and others online. Once information is shared you can't take it back!

Passwords

  • Make passwords long and strong. Use passphrases where you can.

  • Never reveal your password to anyone.

  • Use different passwords for different accounts.

  • Never use the same password twice, even on different websites.

  • Don't make easy variations of previous passwords.

  • Use a password manager.

  • Click "no" when websites or apps ask to remember your passwords.

  • Use strong authentication where possible - 2 factor authentication (2FA), fingerprints, and tokens.

Mobile Devices

  • Set PINs on all your devices and turn auto screen lock on.

  • Use biometrics to lock your system.

  • Don't leave your phone lying around - keep it safe with you.

  • Don't assume the apps available on Google Play Store or the Apple App store are safe.

  • Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when you aren't using them.

  • Avoid public Wi-Fi and hotspots. Instead, use a VPN or personal hotspot.

  • Use trusted anti-virus programs.

  • Be careful about what you sync to the cloud.

  • Cover your webcams when they're not in use.