Stay Secure in 2024: Updated Cybersecurity Tips for the Office and at Home
By Dean Drako | October 22, 2024
As we step into 2024, the landscape of cybersecurity continues to shift dramatically. Cyber criminals are becoming increasingly inventive, and the threats they pose are evolving at an alarming pace. For business owners, both large and small, the need to implement robust cybersecurity practices has never been more critical. This necessity extends beyond the corporate walls to the homes of employees, where many work remotely.
A recent survey of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) revealed that 80% consider negligent employees to be the primary cybersecurity concern over the next two years. A well-meaning employee who falls victim to a cleverly disguised smishing attack can inadvertently trigger a costly cybersecurity breach. In recognition of National Cybersecurity Month, here are six updated cybersecurity tips for 2024 that business owners can share with their employees to enhance security both at home and in the office.
1. Embrace Password Managers
Gone are the days of relying on the outdated "complex password" rule. In 2024, it’s time to embrace password managers. These tools not only generate unique, complex passwords for all your online accounts but also store them securely. This means you can say goodbye to the hassle of remembering multiple passwords and reduce the risk of using the same password across different platforms, which is a common vulnerability.
2. Use Authenticator Apps for Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a crucial layer of security, and in 2024, it’s essential to deploy authenticator apps instead of relying on SMS or email for verification codes. Authenticator apps provide a more secure method of 2FA, as they generate time-sensitive codes that are less susceptible to interception. Ensure that you enable this feature on all services that offer it, adding an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
3. Verify Before You Use Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
As cyber threats become more sophisticated, "MFA fatigue" attacks are on the rise. These attacks exploit the overwhelming number of MFA requests that users receive, leading them to inadvertently approve malicious requests. Always double-check the source of any MFA requests, especially if they are unexpected. Ensure that the request is coming from the legitimate source (e.g., google.com vs. g00gle.com) to avoid falling victim to phishing attempts.
4. Secure Your Home Internet Network
With more employees working from home, securing your home internet network is paramount. Start by changing the default password for your router and enabling WPA3 or WPA2 encryption. To further protect your personal accounts and privacy, consider segmenting your home network. Create a guest network for visitors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, keeping them separate from your primary network to minimize potential vulnerabilities.
5. Backup Your Data Regularly
Data loss can occur due to various reasons, including hardware failure, cyberattacks, or accidental deletion. To safeguard against this, ensure that your computer data is automatically and regularly backed up to cloud-based storage, both at work and at home. This not only protects your valuable information but also ensures that you can quickly recover from any data loss incidents.
6. Educate Family and Work Teams on Phishing Attempts
Effective cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires a collective effort. Educating both your family and work team about the dangers of phishing attempts is crucial. Encourage them to recognize the signs of phishing emails and smishing texts. Regular training sessions and updates on the latest threats can empower individuals to be more vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity practices.
In conclusion, as we navigate the complexities of cybersecurity in 2024, it’s essential for both business owners and employees to remain vigilant and informed. By adopting these updated cybersecurity tips, you can help create a safer digital environment at work and at home. Remember, cybersecurity is not just the responsibility of the IT department; it’s a shared commitment that requires everyone’s participation.
About the Author
Dean Drako is a seasoned entrepreneur, having started more than five companies. He is perhaps best known as the co-founder, president, and CEO of Barracuda Networks (NYSE Ticker CUDA) from 2003 to July 2012. An active angel investor, Drako holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan and an MS in Electrical Engineering from UC Berkeley. As of 2013, he holds 27 patents across various fields, including network security and digital circuits. In July 2012, he founded Eagle Eye Networks, a cloud-based video security company, where he currently serves as President and CEO.