Password and Cyber Protection Tips

We live in a digital age where information on any topic is right at our finger tips. It has never been easier to connect with others and for us to get things done. However, the technology that is made to improve our lives can also put us at risk.

According to the Cybersecurity Business Report, cybercrime damage costs are expected to hit $6 trillion annually by 2021, which is doubled from that of 2015. People are losing trillions of dollars to scams and hackers yearly. It’s more than just an inconvenience…it’s a true detriment to our society!

We met with Scott Lavergne, the CEO of Enterprise Data Concepts, to discuss cybersecurity and things people can do to protect themselves.

Change Your Password Regularly

We know. Changing your password is a hassle and a terrible inconvenience. There’s also the chance you can forget your password when you change it. However, cybercriminals are using viruses that grab passwords stored on your computer or simply guessing correctly using knowledge they gain about you. It is important that you change your unique password every 30-90 days to maintain high levels of security on your computer.

Pro Tip: Make your password a goal you have every month and change it when the month is done. For example, if your goal for a month is to save up to buy an engagement ring, make your password something like “setasideforthefuture” or some other sentence that makes sense for you. Then, not only are you giving yourself constant reminders to achieve your goal, but you are also providing a unique password that you are changing fairly regularly.

Understand That It Can Happen to Anyone

Even you! Unfortunately, no one is completely untouchable on the internet. Everyone has a little bit of risk when it comes to cyber fraud. However, understanding this fact and remaining vigilant about protecting yourself will decrease your risk greatly. Along with changing your passwords, make sure you are monitoring your bank and credit card records carefully for any suspicious activity as well as being cautious with who contacts you online.

Pro Tip: If you receive an email from what seems like a familiar contact, but they are asking for money or behaving uncharacteristically, try to speak to the individual over the phone or in person to be 100% sure they are who they say they are. Cybercriminals are known to hack into email accounts and send messages to the accounts’ contacts posing as them requesting money.

Stay Informed and Use Your Resources

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides resources regarding fraudulent business claims and scams on their website. Stay up to date with the latest scams that are going around your area with these resources the BBB provides.

Pro Tip: The BBB has a Scam Tracker on their website that allows you to see local scam attempts that people have reported. Be a part of the solution and help out your community by reporting any scams you encounter to the BBB.