Cyber Attacks: Not if, but when!
Cyber attacks are often difficult to identify and understand. Cyber threats include dangers such as viruses erasing entire systems, intruders breaking into systems and altering files, using your computer or device to attack others, holding your system hostage and stealing confidential information. The spectrum of cyber risks is limitless and threatens both businesses and individuals. Here are some tips to protect you from an attack.
- Train your employees and your family on cyber security.
- Only connect to the internet over secure, password-protected networks.
- Do not click on links or pop-ups, open attachments or respond to emails from
strangers. - Always enter a URL by hand instead of following links if you are unsure of the sender.
- Do not respond to online requests for personally identifiable information (PII). Most organizations will never ask for your personal information over the internet.
- Trust your instincts. If you think an offer is too good to be true, it probably is. If you see something suspicious, report it to the proper authorities.
- Password-protect all devices that connect to the internet and all user accounts.
- Use Strong Passwords: A strong password consists of at least eight characters that are a combination of letters, numbers and symbols (@, #, $, %, etc.) and contain upper and lower case letters. Change your passwords on a regular basis (every 90 days or so).
- Check your credit reports at annualcreditreport.com for suspicious activity. You can request a report from each of the three major reporting agencies, one agency every four months to assure routine checks throughout the year.
- Purchase Cyber Liability coverage for your home and business exposures to protect you in the event of a cyber breach.