In 2021 Cybersecurity has become more important than ever. In the growing use of the internet the threats of cyberattacks are also increasing. One never knows how easily one can fall prey to attacks like ransomware, spam, phishing, hacking, worms and data breach etc. the internet gives power to change the world in a click but it also has the threat of destroying everything in a click. It is said that prevention is the cure and the same applies to cybersecurity. Through this article we are here to help you in preventing your system from cyberattacks.
What is cyberattack?
Cyber attack can be understood as a process or attempt to steal data or to gain unauthorised access to computers and networks. It is a deliberate exploitation of your systems or network by using malicious code to destroy, steal information or to gain unauthorised access. There are so many ways in which cybercriminals threat your cybersecurity. such methods include denial of service, ransomware, data breach, malware and phishing. Here are some ways which can help you to avoid cyberattacks and secure your system and networks.
Use strong passwords and change them periodically
Creating a strong password is the first step to prevent attacks and security breach. Here you have the control to safeguard your system. To create a strong password always use numerical, special characters like ‘@#*’ and mix of uppercase and lowercase characters . keep your password in between 8-15 characters. Avoid setting predictable passwords such as your mobile number, birthday or anniversary date etc. the stronger your password is, the harder for hackers to crack it. Try not to use the same password for different sites. Generally try to change your passwords periodically, changing your passwords every 90 days is a good practice to secure it. A password management application can help you to manage your passwords.
Install antivirus, anti malware and anti spyware softwares in your system
Viruses are the most common form of cyber attack. So be prepared and always install antivirus softwares in your system. Anti-virus software prevents your systems from viruses by actively scanning for viruses. Virus can get into your email, system files, or in your operating system. Malware and spyware are malicious softwares which are designed to cause damage to your system. Spyware can steal sensitive information from your system. It is equally important to install anti malware and anti spywares in your system and keep them updating. Set up daily system scans via the anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-malware software in order to find and remove any malicious or suspicious agents in your systems as soon as possible.
Create a system backup plan
To avoid serious downtime, loss of data and financial loss it is important to have backup of all your important data. It is a good step to make sure that if something happens to your system you would have your data safe with you. You can create backup of your data through cloud service or by using personnel external hard disk. A cloud service allows you to back up your data online. Whereas you can also use a personal external hard drive to your computer and with it you can copy your updated files to the drive.
Keep updating your system and applications
Not updating your system and softwares regularly gives more scope to cyberattacks. It is important to run regular system updates. New updates help in repairing any bugs and system abnormalities in the system. Most updates include security fixes that prevent the attacks from virus or malwares.
Install a firewall
A firewall is a network security device that keeps an eye on incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewall secures your network by permitting or blocking data packets based on a set of security rules. The main purpose is to establish a barrier between your internal network and incoming traffic from external sources and to block malicious traffic like viruses and hackers.so installing a firewall is important to ensure your networks security form cyberattacks.
Do ensure Endpoint protection
Endpoint security protects endpoints on a network or in the cloud from cybersecurity service threats. These endpoints or entry points of end-user devices are such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices which are remotely connected to a network or system. Endpoints are the crucial area from the view of security. Because of the ongoing pandemic most businesses and corporations are working through work from home mode. So it becomes more important to enable endpoint protection for cybersecurity.
Network security is necessary
Try using secure wifi networks only. Don’t use public or free wifi to transfer sensitive information or while doing any financial transactions. As these networks are not safe, any third party can easily access your information. Also secure your wifi network as it is the safest thing you can do for your systems.
In this pandemic time as the use of technology is increasing and changing people’s lives. Same is the case with cyberattacks. One cyber attack can ruin your business in seconds and change your life completely. According to a report of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team cyber attacks across different sectors have increased over the time. Instead of panicking it is good to take the right precautions to prevent your systems from cybercrime.
