Keeping on top of updates makes software less vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, 25 October, 2023:
Happy Cybersecurity Awareness Month! The 2023 theme, "Secure Our World," encourages everyone to take four key actions to help improve your cyber safety, says a guidance note from Sophos, released today.
1. Using strong passwords (and a password manager)
Stealing passwords remains a popular way for criminals to gain unauthorised access. Choosing a strong and complex password will make it harder for hackers to guess it.
We also recommend that you consider using a password manager, which can store, generate, and even apply your passwords. Making it easier to have different passwords for each of your accounts.
2. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA is a security measure that requires an additional proof of identity, beyond just a password, to grant you access. This could include a one-time passcode, facial recognition, or a fingerprint which are much harder for hackers to replicate. This stops unauthorised people from accessing your systems containing precious data.
3. Recognising and reporting phishing attacks
Earlier this year, Sophos commissioned an independent survey of 3,000 IT professionals into their experiences at the cyber front line. It revealed that email was the root cause of 30% of ransomware attacks, and that phishing is number two in their list of top security concerns for 2023*.
Phishing emails aim to trick you into revealing sensitive information or doing something that will help the attackers.Think you’ve spotted a phishing email? Report it immediately to your IT team! You’ll be helping others stay safe from similar attempts.
4. Updating Software
The exploitation of unpatched vulnerabilities was the leading root cause of cyber incidents investigated by Sophos in 2022. Keeping on top of updates makes software less vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors. Updates also add new/enhanced features and boost the general performance of the software.
Exploited vulnerabilities can have dire consequences as millions of users of MOVEit Transfer (a system that makes it easy to store and share files) discovered earlier this year.
