5 WAYS TO BE CYBER SECURE AT WORK
Businesses face significant financial loss when a cyber attack occurs. In 2019, the U.S. business sector had 17% increase in
data breaches: 1,473 breaches. Cybercriminals often rely on human error—employees failing to install software patches or
clicking on malicious links—to gain access to systems. From the top leadership to the newest employee, cybersecurity
requires the vigilance of everyone to keep data, customers, and capital safe and secure. #BeCyberSmart to connect with
confidence and support a culture of cybersecurity at your organization.
SIMPLE TIPS:
1. Treat business information as personal information. Business information typically includes a mix of personal and
proprietary data. While you may think of trade secrets and company credit accounts, it also includes employee
personally identifiable information (PII) through tax forms and payroll accounts. Do not share PII with unknown
parties or over unsecured networks.
2. Don’t make passwords easy to guess. As “smart” or data-driven technology evolves, it is important to remember
that security measures only work if used correctly by employees. Smart technology runs on data, meaning devices
such as smartphones, laptop computers, wireless printers, and other devices are constantly exchanging data to
complete tasks. Take proper security precautions and ensure correct configuration to wireless devices in order to
prevent data breaches. For more information about smart technology see the Internet of Things Tip Card. Read the
Internet of Things Tip Sheet for more information.
3. Be up to date. Keep your software updated to the latest version available. Maintain your security settings to
keeping your information safe by turning on automatic updates so you don’t have to think about it and set your
security software to run regular scans.
4. Social media is part of the fraud toolset. By searching Google and scanning your organization’s social media sites,
cybercriminals can gather information about your partners and vendors, as well as human resources and financial
departments. Employees should avoid oversharing on social media and should not conduct official business,
exchange payment, or share PII on social media platforms. Read the Social Media Cybersecurity Tip Sheet for more
information.
5. It only takes one time. Data breaches do not typically happen when a cybercriminal has hacked into an
organization’s infrastructure. Many data breaches can be traced back to a single security vulnerability, phishing
attempt, or instance of accidental exposure. Be wary of unusual sources, do not click on unknown links, and delete
suspicious messages immediately. For more information about email and phishing scams see the Phishing Tip
Sheet.
Need support at your business to make it Cyber Secure? Give Friendly Computers a call and we can help.
Why Call a GEEK When You Can Call a FRIEND!
