Businesses often face significant financial loss when a cyber attack occurs. Cybercriminals take advantage of human error to gain access to internal systems, so it's important for all employees to remain vigilant to keep data, customers and capital safe and secure. Check out these five simple tips to staying cybersecure at work from the "Stop. Think. Connect" campaign from Homeland Security.
Five Simple Tips to be Cyber Secure at Work
- When in doubt, throw it out. Links in email, instant messages and online posts are often the way criminals compromise your computer. Before you open an attachment or click a link, stop and think. If it looks suspicious, delete it.
- Back it up. There are many ways data can be lost, including computer malfunctions, viruses, theft or accidental deletion. Back up your work electronically and physically regularly to avoid loss.
- Guard your devices. Never leave your laptop or cell phone unattended in a public place, and use a lock code on your devices when they are not in use to avoid theft or authorized access.
- Secure your accounts. Use passwords that are at least eight characters and a mix of letters, numbers and characters. Do not share login information with anybody, and when possible, turn on stronger authentication for an added layer of security.
- Report anything suspicious. If you experience any problems with your computer or device, report it immediately to your IT department.
Follow these simple steps to create a culture of cybersecurity in your organization. Read the full article from the Homeland Security. For more information and tips to being safe online at work, visit www.dhs.gov/stopthinkconnect
Cindy is a Senior Vice President / Operations Director for Heartland Bank. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Outside of the bank, Cindy enjoys spending time with her family and going to garage sales and flea markets.
