Tips for Staying Cyber-Safe at Home or at Work
Protect Your Digital Assets
The World Economic Forum predicts cybercrime costs will soar to $23.84 trillion by 2027. Cyber threats are part of our digital reality, but there are effective ways to protect yourself without unnecessary complexity.
Follow these four key cybersecurity practices from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST):
1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA): MFA provides an additional layer of security for your online accounts, beyond just a username and password. It might involve a fingerprint scan or a code sent to your phone. However, only approve MFA requests you initiate. Hackers may send unsolicited requests—if in doubt, verify using trusted contact information.
2. Use Strong Passwords: Passwords are your primary defense, so make them strong:
Long: Use at least 12 characters.
Unique: Use different passwords for every account.
Complex: Include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Passphrases are an excellent option—e.g., “I_AM_a_c@t_fan!” instead of "Cats!". Only change passwords if they are compromised, as frequent changes can lead to weak ones. A password manager can help you manage and store strong, unique passwords.
3. Update Software Regularly: Regular updates ensure that you’re protected with the latest security patches. Hackers exploit outdated software to gain access to your system. Set up automatic updates, but ensure they come from verified sources—never trust pop-ups on websites that prompt you to update.
4. Recognize and Report PhishingPhishing occurs when attackers pose as trustworthy sources to steal information. Learn to recognize these scams by looking for:
Unrealistic offers
Urgent, threatening language
Bad grammar and misspellings
Generic greetings or inconsistent sender information
Do not click on links or respond if you receive a suspicious message. Verify the sender's authenticity through official contact channels and report suspected phishing attempts to your IT security team or the Anti-Phishing Working Group.
Good Cyber Hygiene Matters
Good cyber hygiene—like using strong passwords and avoiding phishing scams—might feel inconvenient, but these habits can prevent serious problems. Cybersecurity isn’t just about tools; it’s about the actions you take every day to stay safe.
Make sure your cybersecurity insurance is in place—either as a standalone policy for your business or an endorsement of your homeowners policy. If you are unsure about what is covered and how to protect yourself, contact your Insuregy specialist today
914-696-1000 | www.insuregy.com/insuregy-team | info@insuregy.com
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