Delete old files when no longer needed.
Regularly flesh out file repositories to reduce the chance of sensitive information being exposed or accidentally accessed.
Vantage Point
Regularly back up your important data.
This is useful in the event of a computer hard drive failure or an unfortunate ransomware event. It also protects you from losing critical information due to hard drive failure or a cyberattack.
Don’t plug in USB drives unless you trust their origin.
USBs can carry malware that installs automatically, which can significantly compromise your computer and system security.
Configure your web browser to block pop-ups and automatically detect phishing attempts.
Adjust the settings with simple tweaks to add an extra layer of protection while browsing.
Clear your browser history and cookies regularly.
This critical step helps protect against tracking or exposure of sensitive data from saved sessions.
Be cautious when opening Office files that prompt you to “enable content.”
Do not open it unless you are confident you need to run the macro code embedded in the document.
Review and customize the privacy settings on social media accounts.
Tailoring these settings can help protect personal or company information from unwanted exposure or misuse.
Limit the amount of personal or company information you share online.
Oversharing personal or company information can put you and your organization at risk, making you a target for cybercriminals.
Locate, read, understand, and abide by all company policies and procedures.
These exist to keep the company’s IT resources secure.
Remember your IT/Security staff are here to help and answer questions.
They are your first line of defense in maintaining security. Don’t hesitate to reach out or report concerns.
Run a full scan with antivirus software and contact IT staff immediately if you suspect a security breach.
The sooner you act, the better chance you have of stopping threats.
Regularly review your online accounts for unauthorized activity.
Keep an eye on things with regular checks to catch unauthorized access early and prevent further damage.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks.
Public networks are often insecure, making it easy for attackers to intercept your data. Connect to a VPN whenever possible to protect data in transit.
Secure Wi-Fi networks with a strong password and a minimum of WPA-2 encryption.
This step prevents unauthorized users from accessing your network and stealing your data.
Shred sensitive papers.
Rather than throwing them in the trash or recycling, use a cross-cut shredder to protect confidential documents by ensuring they can’t be pieced back together by prying eyes.
Physically destroy devices before disposal to prevent extractions of stored sensitive information.
Don’t just toss them out. Make sure nothing can be retrieved to protect your personal and company data.
Check that nobody follows you through a secure doorway.
Watch for tailgating, which is when someone enters a secured area without authenticating themselves. Always check that everyone has proper access.
Lock your computer when you walk away from it, even if only for a minute.
Promptly locking your device stops unauthorized access and guarantees your data remains secure while you’re away.
Ensure no sensitive information is left exposed on your desk.
Keep sensitive information out of sight. Leaving documents or devices unattended can invite unwanted access, even in secure environments.
Only install approved software on your work computer.
Always follow your company’s policy regarding appropriate software programs to avoid introducing security risks or breaking compliance.
