Blog

Data Protection

January 27, 2023 by Staff
Cyber Security

As Data Privacy Week comes to a close, I’d like to remind you that securing your data is something you should keep in mind all the time, not just during this special week in January.  Phishing and social engineering attacks are happening every day, but there are steps you can take to make sure you are protected.

Here are some things you can do to actively protect yourself:

  1. Password Security
    • All passwords should be complex, using a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
    • Don’t reuse passwords across multiple sites.
    • Never write down passwords.  Instead, use a secure password vault on your computer or phone.
    • Change passwords frequently.
  2. Multi-Factor Authentication
    • If a hacker gets ahold of your password, it is extremely difficult for them to get past any multi-factor authentication you have set up.
    • Most sites and apps have this available, but you may need to look in settings to turn it on.
  3. Phishing Emails
    • Make sure to check over emails that are sent to you to check that they are valid. 
    • Hover over any links in the email to make sure the URL matches up with where you think it will go.
    • Never click on links or open attachments if you weren’t expecting them, even if you know who sent them.  Hackers can spoof the from field in emails to make it look like someone you know.
    • Delete suspicious emails immediately without clicking on links or replying to the email.
  4. Manage Privacy Settings
    • Check out what privacy and security settings your programs or apps are using.  
    • There are generally options within programs like e-commerce sites, e-mail, delivery services, social networks, and many others that you can update to make yourself more secure.

Thank you for joining us during Data Privacy Week and please reach out to us if you have any questions or are interested in any of the IT services we provide here at Copeland Buhl.  https://www.copelandbuhl.com/service/cybersecurity/