With the rise in cyber attacks around the world, the companies and government alike are constantly looking for ways to strengthen their cyber security measures to protect the personal data of their users. However, this duty to protect one’s data doesn’t simply lie with just external organisations. Internet users also plays a big part in securing their devices so that their information remains secure. Let us break down 7 ways you can secure your devices both at a personal and organisational level:

1. Keep Your Devices Up To Date

We know it can get really tempting to push the “update later” button. However, this may just be the simplest way to secure your personal data. What you aren’t aware is that updated apps and softwares are usually well-equipped with security patches and bug fixes which prevents hackers from accessing your mobile devices to obtain private data.

2. Change Your Passwords Regularly

Have you ever wondered why organisations always prompt you to change your passwords every 6 months or so? One reason behind the practice is to defend the company data systems against being invaded because of some other website or company getting hit with a data breach. Therefore, when it comes to creating a password that properly protects your device(s), consider getting a password from a random password generator and not reuse any old passwords. Make sure to keep updating the password so that your accounts continue to be as secured as possible.

3. Lock Your Devices At All Times

We have discussed about how to protect important and sensitive data through your softwares. What about your hardware options? For a start, you should never keep an unlocked device unattended. Be sure to always lock your devices with strong passwords, finger print or facial recognition when not in use. Doing so makes it difficult for people to break into your devices to steal any sensitive information.

4. Install Anti-Virus Softwares

Installing an anti-virus or phishing system onto your devices can be extremely useful in preventing your data from being stolen. While you’re at it, remember to update your softwares whenever there is a new release.

5. Back Up Your Data

In an unfortunate case of a data breach, you may potentially lose any information on your devices. Thus, as a precautionary measure, you should back up your data so that you can retrieve any data or information that was stolen from you. Furthermore, if you do lose anything along the way, you’d still have a backup copy readily available!

6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

In 2018, several WhatsApp accounts were reportedly hacked as users were unable to access their WhatsApp accounts. As a prevention, WhatsApp introduced a two-factor authentication system where users will be asked for a security pin that they’ve set. This aims to help prevent accounts from getting hacked in the future. Stay tuned for our article next week on the 5 frequently used applications that has implemented a 2-factor authorisation.

7. Only Use Trusted Internet Connections

Singapore is undoubtedly ranked amongst the top for being the most connected cities in the world where WiFi connection is readily available. From malls to public transport, you can always find yourself connected online. But this also means that you are more vulnerable as hackers hijack WiFi connections to steal personal information. Hence, avoid logging onto internet banking, or any confidential sites when connected to unsecured internet connections.