Farmington Hills: (248) 286-1166
The risk of cybercriminals targeting businesses and individuals continues to grow exponentially. Here are some steps you can take to stay more digitally secure.
Beware of Phishing
Don’t open email attachments that you are not expecting. Even email attachments from known contacts sometimes are infected, so be wary. When visiting websites look closely at the domain name to determine if it is the correct site, not an impostor with a similar name.
Use Secure Sites for Sensitive Data
For web sites that require bank account, credit card, or social security numbers, or any other sensitive data, check that there is an ‘s’ after ‘http’ to ensure the web site is encrypted.
Be Email Smart
Information sent via email can be intercepted or forwarded. Consider the content before you send. Even encrypted email is not recommended for sensitive data. Use alternate, more secure communication methods.
Follow Good Password Practices
Don’t use the same password for multiple logins. Passwords should be at least 8 characters long. We recommend 12. Choose complex passwords that include upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters (e.g. #, @, &, !). Passphrases are an easy way to develop a complex password, e.g. I am Awesome!!! Never share your password.
Protect Company Computers
Lock your computer (Windows Key + L) when away from your desk. Be mindful where you place company computers or smartphones to minimize the risk of loss or theft. Report missing or stolen devices immediately to your employer. Never allow others to use these devices for non-business purposes as it could expose them (and the company network) to infection.
Avoid Portable Media
Portable media drives (e.g. flash drives) are risky. Never use them for sensitive data as they could be lost or stolen. They also could become infected so do not plug them into your computer.
Know Who You’re Talking To
When asked for sensitive data or credentials over the phone, online, via email or even in person, exercise caution. Always use the phone number on file to call institutions (e.g. banks, credit card companies, healthcare organizations, etc.) that deal with sensitive data.
For learn more about how Safety Net keeps our clients digitally secure contact us.
