Due to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, cyber-attack threats have been at an all-time high. So much so that according to (Winder, 2022), Google recently issued an emergency security update for all Chrome users (para 1). As a result, business owners and individuals alike must take extra cautionary measures to reduce the likelihood of identity theft, stolen information, and lost money. To learn more about protecting yourself from cyber-attacks, read our cybersecurity tips below.
Open links with caution:
One wrong click can potentially download a virus onto your computer and steal your personal information. Therefore, be very mindful of the links you click. Especially one's sent from unknown contacts in your email or text messages.
Change your passwords:
It may be convenient to have one password for all your online accounts, but it’s not ideal in terms of safety. If a cyber attacker gets a hold of one of the universal passwords, they also have access to all your other accounts. Therefore, we strongly suggest using a different password for all your online accounts. To ensure you don’t forget them, you can keep track of all your passwords in a notepad. Programs like “LastPass” are also very helpful solutions in password management.
Use multi-factor authentication:
Multi-factor authentication grants a user access to their online account after successfully providing multiple pieces of information that prove their identity. Many online accounts allow you to use your fingerprint, voice recognition, or an extra pin as an added safety measure.
Keep your systems updated:
Your computer and phone software update regularly to provide enhanced safety measures. Therefore, ensuring you have the latest updates helps protect your information. In addition, if you are a business owner with a website, make sure you keep your website plugins current.
Back up everything:
Ransomware tricks users into installing dangerous software on their computers. The cyber attacker will threaten users by saying that all their data and files will be lost if they don’t download their software. Don’t fall victim to this common attack method. Back up all your important files on multiple safe locations onto your computer to put you at ease in case of a ransomware attack.
Use firewalls:
Firewalls monitor untrusted and trusted network traffic and block any suspicious activity. You can purchase a firewall security device at your local technology store.
We hope our tips encouraged you to protect your information and finances from the many cyberattack threats we are being faced with during these unprecedented times. Here at U-Vest®, we ensure that every financial account we set up for our clients is as secure as possible. Call us today for financial services that take cybersecurity into account.
This article is meant to be general in nature and is not intended, and should not be construed as personal advice of any kind. Please consult your financial advisor prior to making financial decisions. Nick Brinson is a Financial Advisor with U-Vest Financial®, a separate entity from LPL Financial, and can be reached at 850.300.7055. Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/ SIPC.
Works cited: Winder, D. (2022, March 26). Google Issues Emergency Security Update For 3.2 Billion Chrome Users—Attacks Underway. Forbes. Retrieved March 30, 2022 from https://www.forbes.com/sites/daveywinder/2022/03/26/google-confirms-emergency-security-update-for-32-billion-chrome-users-attacks-underway/?sh=56ba0428aaa2