10 Most Important Cyber Security Tips for Users

Most of us are online and connected to the internet all day, every day. Even if we aren't using our mobile phones, laptops, or tablets, they're most likely still connected to the internet! With all the background processes going on as apps or programs are still running, we need to be aware that cybersecurity is a real issue.

Securing yourself digitally becomes even more important now, knowing that most of our sensitive information can be found and accessed online, including banking details, credit card details, and other sensitive personal information. To help you keep your devices safe, we're offering the 10 most important cybersecurity tips for users to implement and become more digitally secure!

Download and Install Antivirus Software

This may sound simple, but it's an integral cybersecurity tip for all users, across all devices. To protect yourself from threats, both online or files that you might copy to your device from a flash or external hard drive, installing a paid antivirus is a better option. Antivirus software keeps you safe from malware, as well as from having your devices hacked into.

Beware of Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are a way for others to gain access to your personal information online and even through phone calls. These creative and dangerous scams take advantage of your trusting nature and, often, ignorance, to gain access to your accounts or devices by making you click on links or con you into giving them information over the phone. Don't open emails from people that you don't know, and make sure that people are who they say they are by confirming their identity using Nuwber.

Practice Good Password Management

Ensure that you keep your many accounts safe from the first point of entry – your login. Having a good, strong, password is key. Using a long password with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, symbols, and digits decrease the chances of your account(s) being hacked by decoding a simple password. Also, don't use the same password for multiple accounts! It may seem convenient, but it's detrimental in terms of online security.

Suspicious Friend Requests

Don't know the person who sent you a friend or follow request on Facebook or Instagram? It's better to reject the request than to allow a stranger access to your digital (and “real”) life through social media.

Update Your Device Software

Keeping your devices up to date with the latest software helps to keep them safe! Updates often contain patches for bugs, securing the weak security spots on your devices.

Only Use Secure Networks to Shop and Bank Online

Free, public WiFi can be accessed almost anywhere nowadays. While that keeps us connected, make sure to engage in sensitive activities, where accessing your money online is involved, from private, secure networks.

Back-Up Your Data Regularly

Back up your data to the cloud. Using an external hard drive to back up your important data is even safer. This gives you added peace of mind in the event that you are a victim of a security breach, or if your data on the cloud is breached.

Never Leave Your Devices Unattended

While this is good practice, in general, to keep your expensive laptop or tablet safe from thieves, especially when away from home, there's another benefit, too. Sometimes, someone might not steal your physical device, but leaving it unattended could give them the opportunity to gain access to your sensitive, personal data. A minute is all it could take.

Don't Save Payment Information

Websites and browsers give you the option of saving your payment information but it's wiser not to do this. The fewer important details saved online, the better. Prioritize safety over convenience in this case.

Stay Suspicious

Online security measures are taken by most reputable sites and apps, but it's better to remain wary while online. Staying on your toes will keep you safe!