Don’t get personal

[This article is a follow on from A risky business]

We’re all a little touchy at the moment. (No? Just me?) …I don’t think it’s just me. We’re all a little on edge – and with good reason. But that doesn’t mean we should let ourselves be distracted and forget to focus on things that matter.

Family is one of those things. Looking after the people around you is one of those things. But looking after yourself is also one of those things. This means taking time for yourself – time to think, time to breathe. It also means looking after your security – your data, your passwords. These things may not sound important when compared to looking after your family, but if your data gets breached it’s not only you that will be affected, it’s them too.

It’s not a fun subject, it’s not a hugely interesting subject, but I cannot stress enough that it is a subject that really matters.

So how can you help keep your data safe? Here are a few tips…

In the last blog on the subject A risky business I talked about cyber hygiene standards. Now I’m going to talk about verification and updates. I know – thrilling, but important so stick with me.

At the moment you should be far more careful than usual when installing software and giving out personal information. Do not click on links from email. At all. Just don’t do it. Whatever you could get to through the email, you can get to another way. It’s not worth it.

When signing up to new services, verify the source of every URL and ensure the programmes or apps you install are the original versions from a trusted source.

Digital viruses spread a bit like physical ones – your mistakes online could very well contaminate others in your business, address book or the wider community.

On to updates… (see, we’re steaming through and you’re still here – good going). Just as you pay attention to trusted sources when you think about who to listen to about the spread of COVID-19 – (how many cases there really are/who is telling the truth), so you should think the same way when thinking about your systems.

Be sure to update your system software and applications regularly to make sure there aren’t any weaknesses that can be exploited by hackers. If at any stage you feel that the advice you’re being given sounds bizarre, search the internet to see whether others have similar concerns and look for a well-known site that can help verify the legitimacy of the information.

Your personal behaviour is instrumental in preventing the spread of dangerous infections – both online and offline. Think of them the same way. Putting a stop to viruses is the name of the game right now.

If you are at all unsure about any of this advice or have any further questions, get in touch today – we are always happy to help.​

Stay Safe.