Cyber security has become an essential part of our digital lives. As we spend more time on the internet, our data are also exposed to all the possible hackers, especially our personal information relating to bank accounts, social media details, etc. Failure to safeguard these data could and do result in financial losses and misuse of our personal photos, videos, etc. That being the case, it is highly imperative that you put in place measures to secure yourself from cyber threats. In this context, this article presents the most important tips on how to ensure cyber security and the best practices to do so:
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What are cyber threats?
Cyber threats are any harmful activity that accesses your data without your consent and is subject to misuse. For example, someone may gain access to your mobile banking account and steal your money. Such threats involve stealing, manipulating, or disrupting user data, which is extremely dangerous to our digital lives. Worse, more of such occur these days on social networking sites. Computer viruses, phishing attacks, Denial of Service (DoS), and malware attacks are some of the common examples of cyber threats.
Also: What Is a SIM Swap Scam and How to Stay Safe?
Who instigates cyber threats?
Most of the time, it’s savvy individuals/groups with malicious intent who create cyber threats. The motive is mostly to breach someone’s data, get personal information, access bank accounts, blackmail, misuse photos, videos, etc.
Also, there are those who take to cyberattacks on the order of the state. They are generally called “state-sponsored hackers”. More usually, though, there are professional scammers who scam people sitting at their home offices. Organized criminal organizations are also on this list.
In a gist, cyber threats come from individuals who do it for fun to professionals, to state-sponsored groups or organizations.
Best tips and practices to stay secure from cyber threats
Use multi-factor authentication
One of the best ways to secure yourself from cyber threats is to use multi-factor authentication passwords on your mobile banking apps, digital wallets, social media apps, or anywhere else where you have logged in. That’s because it uses code and biometric scans for security. So, it’s one step ahead of 2FA and significantly better at protecting your vital details.
Don’t share your passwords
It’s hard not to emphasize the importance of not sharing passwords or login details with anyone. You shouldn’t always refrain from sharing your social network, banking, WiFi, and other services’ passwords with anyone, even with people you dearly trust. Once you share that password, it might end up on the internet if the destination device is compromised. In sum, sharing your password with another could be the start of a series of troubles down the line. Keep your password to yourself. See the next tip to set a stronger password that others can’t guess easily.
Here are some of the cybersecurity advisories for government employees of Nepal.
Use unique passwords
It’s also best advised that you use alphanumeric passwords to ward off rogue hands. Unlike just letters, you can use letters, numbers, and special symbols in your passwords. Doing this improves your security significantly. For e.g., a password like Nepal@312 is much stronger than simply setting nepal123.
Download a VPN
You can download a VPN to access apps and websites that are disabled by telecom companies and internet service providers (ISPs). But beware of what you are accessing. The government of Nepal has barred cryptocurrency and anything related to it. Likewise, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has said that users with an unofficial VPN cannot use mobile and internet banking.
On the other hand, you should also consider twice visiting any website or using an app that’s already blocked on your network. There could be security reasons, too.
Stay alert against phishing attacks
You should stay away from phishing attacks to maximize your cyber security. Phishing attacks come in the form of emails, messages, websites, etc., that tempt you to click on a link for some reward or offer. The link contains malicious codes that try to extract your personal information. The best way to avoid these attacks is by not clicking on links that come in emails, messages, websites, etc.
Update your phone and computer
Keep updating your phone’s security to the latest operating system (OS). Doing this installs the latest security features that secure your accounts from hacking attempts. Besides OS, smartphone brands such as Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi all issue security patches. You should be the first to download and install them whenever one is available. Just like devices and anti-virus measures, hacking tools also get smarter with time. Installing the latest software enhances the security level of your devices.
Use private WiFi networks, and shun public ones
While using public WiFi is not entirely unpreferable, using it for browsing social networks or financial services takes a risk. Such networks are open, and it’s possible that someone is eyeing to steal users’ data without anyone’s knowing. Also, public WiFi doesn’t have the same level of security measures as private ones. So, you can browse public WiFi for basic activities such as finding information on the web or downloading some files. But we encourage you not to use mobile banking apps, digital apps, social networks, or anything sensitive on public WiFi. Next time you go out and try to connect to a public WiFi, do keep in mind that one of the ways to secure yourself from cyber threats is not to access sensitive apps and services on public WiFi. Do read: How to be safe while using Public WiFi.
Keep a backup of your data
There often comes a time when you need to reset your phone or computer because of clutter, suspicion of hacking, or to give it a freshen up. However, it is vital that you always keep a backup of your personal data, such as log-in details, photos, videos, and other vital details. Once erased from your device, they may not be retrievable, so be cautious enough to regularly back up all of your most personal data. For ease, you can use a Google account to sync your details or use something similar.
Be careful when online shopping
Online shopping has flourished but so have scams. We commonly hear people getting swindled by fake online retailers. For that, you can demand to pay for delivery. But if the seller is sending you a link where you need to provide your personal details, such as banking and digital wallet data, then simply ignore them. Buy from legit online shopping platforms and sellers and avoid providing OTP codes or sensitive information at any cost, which lets them log in to your bank or social media accounts.
Check out: Pillars of Digital Security: Cyber security and data privacy
Conclusion
Cyber security is crucial in today’s digitally dependent age. Knowing how to keep yourself safe on the internet remains paramount. Cyber-attacks are common, so we all need to stay ahead and cautious of possible breaches in our personal digital space. We hope the above tips and best cyber security practices help you fortify your digital presence.
