(By Elizabeth Tuico) Data breaches and cyberattacks are everywhere. You can’t turn on the television or read a news story without coming across the latest incident. Not only should large enterprises be on high alert, but also small businesses and individuals. According to Verizon’s research, 43% of cyberattacks in 2019 targeted small companies.

What can you do to protect your data?

Think Before You Click

Phishing scams are the most common entry points for hackers. If you get an email or text announcing a deal that seems too good to be true, don’t be swayed to click. The link could release malware onto your device. Also, don’t open documents from senders you don’t know. (This advice not only goes for your laptop or PC, but also your phone and tablet.) When in doubt, do not click.

Antivirus Software

To prevent a malware attack, install and use antivirus and anti-spyware software on all devices.

Install Updates Immediately

Malware continuously evolves. To address the latest security vulnerabilities, software vendors update or “patch” their programs. It’s crucial to install updates to security, web browser, operating system and antivirus software as soon as they are released. Consider updates your first line of defense against online threats.

Multi-Factor Authentication

This extra layer of security is designed to ensure that you're the only person who can access accounts, even if someone discovers your password. When you want to sign in to a new device for the first time, you'll provide two pieces of information—a password and the six-digit verification code that's automatically sent to your phone number or email. Entering the code verifies that you trust the new device. Use multi-factor authentication whenever it’s available.

A few years ago, I had a weak password on my Microsoft account. The account was hacked, and someone began using my excel and word programs. Luckily, Microsoft caught the breach and alerted me.

Strong Passwords

The longer your password is, the stronger it is. Aim for at least 12 characters that include numbers and symbols. Do not use the same password for multiple accounts.

Store your passwords in a safe place. Many folks use online password managers. A solid password manager not only remembers dozens of different logins for online accounts, it will also help keep them secure by generating strong passwords that are hard to decipher, and storing them safely in an encrypted vault.

Avoid These Passwords

These passwords are considered the most common and easiest to hack. If you use any of these or similar variations, change your passwords right away:

• 123456 (or any chronologically-ordered numbers)

• 987654321

• 123123

• QWERTY

• 111111

Backup Data

Always backup your data either in the cloud or on external hard drives. In the event of a breach, you won’t lose important operating files that keep your business (and your life) moving along.

Don’t think a cybercrime can’t happen to you. Bad actors are everywhere and don’t discriminate. Vigilance goes a long way.

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