Cyber security, known in English as cybersecurity or also IT security, is the set of technologies that are used to defend computer systems from hacker attacks.
Also due to the Covid-19 pandemic, online crimes have increased exponentially in recent years and the subjects affected come from the most disparate areas: it is not only personal data that is stolen, but also, to a large extent, corporate data. This is why companies are working to combat this phenomenon, investing in training their employees on the subject and in technologies aimed at protecting IT assets.
Having a team dedicated to corporate IT security is now essential in 2021. The figure of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), i.e. the person responsible for IT security who is committed to limiting the risks related to the use of digital systems, and the Data Protection Officer (DPO), i.e. the person who ensures that the requirements set by the GDPR, the European regulation on Privacy that came into force in May 2018, are respected, certainly cannot be missing.
What makes cybersecurity difficult to maintain in 2021?
Maintaining computer security is not that simple, however. As Robert H. Morris (former scientist at the National Computer Security Center) said: “The three golden rules for ensuring computer security are: don't own a computer, don't turn it on, and don't use it.”
Effective cybersecurity is in fact difficult to implement and it is expected that in the near future it could become even more difficult. The problem is precisely the lack of qualified information security personnel, the complexity of the systems and also the pace at which new technology is developed. This is also why in recent years hacker attacks have become increasingly frequent, including malware, industrial espionage, information warfare, cybercrime and much more.
Tips for maintaining cyber security
However, we do not want to discourage you, both companies and individual users can implement a series of solutions to protect themselves from cyber threats and use their devices more safely.
So here is our advice:
- Using a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure connection between multiple devices and allows you to surf the web completely anonymously. VeePN protects your privacy and prevents advertisers from tracking your web activity.
- Create strong passwords
Using a simple short password makes hacker attacks easier. It is better to use a longer one that alternates lowercase and uppercase characters, numbers and special characters such as ! or @. To create difficult-to-crack passwords you can also use generators that are available for free online. It would also be better to change passwords frequently and not use the same ones for too long.
- Use different passwords
We often use the same password for multiple accounts for fear of forgetting it and not being able to log in, but this is actually one of the most common mistakes. Using different passwords guarantees a higher level of security for your personal data: even if a hacker were to discover one, he would not be able to access all the other accounts. If you are afraid of forgetting them, you could write them down in a special notebook and keep them at home, in a place that is difficult to find.
- Install antivirus software
An antivirus allows you to detect and eliminate threats in time. It is recommended to perform a complete scan of the device at least once a week and to regularly update the software to each new version to ensure maximum protection. Viruses, malware and spyware, in fact, evolve very quickly and the antivirus needs constant updates to stay up to date. So the next time the software asks you to download an update, do not ignore it!
- Pay attention to the addresses and-mail
Before opening an email, read the sender's address carefully and make sure it is trustworthy. Do not open received attachments directly from unknown senders and do not click on the links in the email immediately: they may contain malware that will infect your device.
- Don't connect to public WiFi networks
These are easily targeted by online criminals as they are not protected.. It is best to only use private WiFi networks that require a password to log in.
- Implement two-factor authentication
2FA, which stands for “Two-Factor Authentication” (also known as Multi-Factor Authentication), is a secure authentication method that adds an extra layer of protection when logging in. It relies on using two methods to access a website or application, such as entering a password, entering a code received via SMS or email, facial recognition, or even scanning a fingerprint. Today, two-factor authentication is the most secure protection system used to protect personal or business accounts.
By implementing these tips, you can maintain your company's (or personal) IT security, use your devices and surf the Internet with greater peace of mind, without worrying too much about hacker attacks.
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