5 Steps to Stay Cyber Safe!

Staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. These five cyber safety tips can help you protect your devices, accounts and personal information.

1. Software Updates

Keep your devices up to date to ensure security flaws are fixed.

•  Update your devices regularly.
• You’ll get access to new features.
• Bugs on devices will be fixed, helping them work better.

2. Strong Unique Passphrase

Use three random words to create a memorable passphrase.

• Avoid using personal information.
• Make it at least 16 characters long.
• Use a password manager rather than writing passwords down.

3. Phone Scams

Be cautious of unexpected contact by phone, email, text or letter.

If someone asks you for personal information, think twice. Don’t share passwords or security codes, and never send money if you are unsure who you are dealing with.

If you’re uncertain, contact the organisation directly using a trusted phone number.

4. Phishing Attacks

Phishing is a fake message designed to trick you into doing something unsafe, such as providing payment information.

Look out for:

• Unusual requests for personal information.
• Emails with unexpected or unusual attachments.
• Emails containing links to websites.
• Messages that create a sense of urgency.

5. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication means proving it is really you in more than one way when you log in. For example, you might enter your password followed by a code sent to your phone.

Nearly all account attacks can be blocked with MFA.

Make sure your online accounts are protected with MFA where possible. This can be set up using an app or text codes.

Stop, Think, Check

Before clicking a link, opening an attachment, sharing information or responding to a text, email or phone call:

STOP – Take a moment.
THINK – Does this seem genuine?
CHECK – Verify if you’re unsure.

With thanks to Convene Cyber for kindly providing the information in this guide.