It is not easy to always keep up-to-date with the most current security standards for your home, company, or institution. In addition to special cybersecurity tools, you can also rely on a selection of the best practices, tips, and tricks that have proven to work for years.
This begins with a system that is up-to-date. Both the operating system and all the applications – whether on desktop PC, notebook, tablet, or smartphone – should be the latest version. Outdated programs may have security gaps in them that criminals can use to their advantage.
Antivirus programs and firewalls are an absolute must, despite the threats becoming increasingly more complex. The latest versions can ward off everyday hazards and prevent major damage. A good antivirus program and a well-configured firewall form a solid basis, which can then be built upon, especially when it comes to PC workstations or companies.
Keeping track of which data is accessible to which user, or what can be edited by whom, should be your top priority and has the same importance as a firewall or antivirus program. Companies should also be aware of what is known as social engineering. In the past, criminals have been scamming companies by gaining information on businesses that have many departments. They pretend to be from the IT department and say they need the log-in information from certain employees since they need to carry out their tasks for them. The employee hands over the information since they believe the IT workers are legitimate.
Having training sessions with employees about these dangers is therefore highly recommended so they are aware of the dangers and are more likely to spot problems. Employees should be taught how to properly use the company network and the devices connected to it. Logs also help to monitor which users were active at what time so that any anomalies can be detected and tracked.
Companies and authorities are advised to regularly read up on new technologies and news on cybersecurity to stay up-to-date. This enables you to optimise your own cybersecurity and offer your employees tips on how to keep the company network as secure as possible.
Private users should keep themselves informed on relevant portals as well as check how much protection their security software offers i.e. which updates and extensions are available, etc.
In any case, one thing is quite clear: cybersecurity is not always easy. No matter how well you believe you’ve implemented security measures on the internet and in other areas of your digital environment, there will always be gaps and weak areas that attackers will be able to infiltrate. Criminals are constantly developing their methods and working on new ways to steal data or sabotage projects. In the worst case, substantial financial and/or personal loss is the result. However, although it sometimes seems that fighting cybercrime is a lost battle, you must still take precautions to make sure the risk is as low as possible. You wouldn’t just hand your house key to a burglar, would you?