Information has become big business, a business that everyone uses daily. Computers, smart phones and tablets can be found in most homes as well as workspaces. All these devices have created an environment of convenience for using, storing and managing our personal information. This convenience, however, comes with a responsibility for individuals to properly care for their information. There are several key methods for the average user to help properly secure their personal information.
Software updates
Computer hackers are always hunting for security flaws within computer operating systems and apps. Software manufacturers are also constantly working to identify and patch flaws as well. If you are a Windows user, Microsoft issues updates for their operating system on the second Tuesday of each month. These updates are typically installed automatically. The computer user is notified to reboot their system to complete the update process.
It is important to note, the Windows 10 operating system is no longer being updated for security flaws. This results in all computers using Windows 10 being considered a security risk. Microsoft provides free Windows 10 upgrade to Windows 11, but only if the computer hardware meets the minimum requirements. Computers that cannot update to Windows 11 should be replaced.
Apple users also receive software updates for the iOS software. These updates are not on a set schedule, but are released as needed with major updates typically released in September. Other operating systems like Linux also provide periodic updates for both the system and app software packages.
Home network security
Your home router is your doorway into the Internet. It is your first line of defense against hackers that exist outside your network. If the router is not properly configured to block hostile content, your entire home network is at risk. Once malware is introduced to any device on your home network, the malicious software can unknowingly spread to other devices. Once infected, these devices potentially expose your personal information to the threats outside your network. For this reason, securing the router with strong Wi-Fi passwords and software updates when possible, is highly important.
Two-factor authentication
Most people today use some sort of online account, whether shopping, banking or healthcare records. Much of this information is highly sought after by hackers. Many service providers have adopted the use of two-factor authentication (TFA). In a nutshell, TFA is a process of using multiple methods of identifying a person who is logging into the secure system that contains personal information. When a user first attempts to log in using a password, they would be prompted for another secure passcode to verify their identity. This secondary passcode is sent to either an email address the user can access or the user’s cell phone. If these two methods are not available, some systems allow for a phone call to the user’s home phone number.
Strong passwords
Passwords are a controversial topic. Most people typically have the same complaint, “there are to many passwords to remember”. Strong passwords are encouraged by most systems, but oftentimes each system has a unique definition for a strong password. Password managers are useful and can help with remembering difficult passwords. Web browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome and Firefox all incorporate password managers. Other apps, such as Password Corral, Bitwarden and Proton Pass are third-party apps to help secure passwords.
Security questions
Have you ever tried connecting to an online account and been prompted for an answer to a security question, only to find you don’t remember the answer? This is very common. The critical aspect of security questions is to select a question that is EASY to answer, with the response that only YOU can answer.
Protecting your information
Hackers are using many ways to trick people into giving their information. Phone calls, text messages and “phishing” emails are all common ways people are subjected to by hackers. It is important to be skeptical when unknown callers ask for personal information. Emails that encourage you to click on links should be verified even if they are from people you know. A sender’s email can be stolen and used for malicious purposes. The phrase “Trust but verify” takes on stronger meaning in today’s computer-based environment. You should always remember your information has VALUE, not just to you but for both legal and illegal entities across the world. That value should be recognized and protected like any other real currency.
