Five Essential Cyber Security Tips for Online Safety

October marks #CyberSecurityAwarenessMonth in the UK and globally.

In today’s digital age, the importance of internet security cannot be overstated. Internet security encompasses various measures to protect internet-connected systems, including hardware, software, and data, from theft, damage, and unauthorised access. It’s crucial to prioritise online security to safeguard your digital presence. Here are five tips to help protect your assets and mitigate potential risks:

1. Password Protection:

Strengthen your online security with strong passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). A password manager can be a valuable ally in maintaining strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. A strong password is one that’s difficult for others to guess or crack. Avoid common words or phrases and opt for a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.

 2. Keep Software Up to Date:

Installing software updates for your operating system and programs is critical. Always install the latest security updates for your devices. Enabling automatic updates is an effective way to ensure that your devices stay up-to-date and resilient against potential threats.

3. Regular Data Backups:

We often take the safety and accessibility of the data stored on our devices for granted until an unexpected disaster occurs. Backups act as a shield against human errors, hardware failures, virus attacks, power outages, and more. Backing up data can be achieved through external hard drives, cloud storage, Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, online backup services, and more.

 4. Avoid Phishing Scams:

Exercise caution with suspicious emails and phone calls. Cybercriminals will attempt to trick you into revealing personal information, such as login IDs, passwords, and financial data. They may even impersonate legitimate businesses or organisations to gain your trust. Always be vigilant and cautious when sharing personal information online.

5. Utilise Anti-Virus Software:

Anti-virus software plays a pivotal role in scanning your device for malware. Once detected, it takes swift action, either deleting or quarantining the threat. While many devices come with pre-installed anti-virus software, it’s wise to consider additional protection to cover potential vulnerabilities. Ensure you only download software from trusted sources.

Cyber security is a shared responsibility. These five fundamental tips serve as a robust foundation for strengthening your online security and protecting your digital assets. By implementing these practices, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence and safeguard your online presence during Cyber Security Awareness Month and beyond.

Cyber Security at Tier 2

At Tier 2 Consulting, security is of utmost importance to us. Our staff undergo rigorous security vetting, and our project development teams collaborate closely with our customers to align with the governance requirements of various commercial organisations, including those in regulated environments such as biotech.

We are proud to be recognised as a trusted third-party supplier, named in the Crown Commercial Services Digital Outcomes and Specialisms Procurement Framework. This means that public service bodies can access our expertise in middleware consultancy and project delivery through this framework.

For expert software development and solutions that place a strong emphasis on security, we invite you to explore our services at Tier 2 Consulting.