Writing · Other
Cyber Hygiene: Keep Your Digital Life Clean
By Richard K. Marshall · Originally published
You wouldn't skip washing your hands. Don't skip cyber hygiene either.
Our lives run through the online world now. Keeping that space clean matters for your safety, your privacy and your peace of mind. Here's how.
1. Update regularly
- Software updates. Keep every device, phone to laptop, on the latest security patches. Updates fix vulnerabilities. Ignoring them leaves you open to attack.
- Antivirus. Keep it current. It's your first line of defense against malware and viruses.
2. Strong passwords and two-factor authentication
- Passwords. Use complex, unique passwords for each account. Passphrases or a password manager make it easier and safer.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA). Turn it on wherever you can. It makes it much harder for attackers to get into your accounts.
3. Watch for phishing
- Know the signs. Treat suspicious emails, messages or calls asking for personal information with caution.
- Check the URL. Before entering personal data, check the address. Look for "https" and the lock icon.
4. Keep it minimal
- Audit your apps. Review the apps and services you've signed up for. Delete or unsubscribe from the ones you don't use.
- Share less. The less personal data that's out there, the lower your risk.
5. Lock down your Wi-Fi
- Router. Change the default password, use WPA3 encryption if it's available, and consider hiding your network name (SSID).
- Public Wi-Fi. Avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN if you need to.
6. Back up your data
Have a backup plan for important data: cloud, external drive or both. Make it routine.
7. Learn, and teach
- Stay informed. Threats change. Follow cybersecurity news, sign up for alerts from trusted sources, and consider basic training.
- Spread the word. Help friends and family build good habits. The more people practice them, the safer everyone is.
It's a habit, not a cleanup
Cyber hygiene isn't one-and-done. It's ongoing. Every good habit protects you and makes the online world a little safer for everyone.
Pick one item on this list and do it today. Turning on 2FA for your email is a good place to start.
— Richard K. Marshall Marshall Intelligence · Lexington, Kentucky
If your business wants help securing its online presence, start at marshall.net.
Originally published on X: https://x.com/RichMarshall/status/1865441512974131332 · . Refreshed .