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Full Disclosure
As research for this installment, we queried ChatGPT with “Suggest the best steps to take for personal cybersecurity.” The bulk of these recommendations came from its response. We have carefully reviewed them and made a few changes/deletions, but ChatGPT’s large language model did a more thorough job than we would have. As always, if you have comments positive or negative about any Jump Seat article, please reply by email and we’ll get back to you.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
- Create complex passwords that include a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
- The length of your password is the single largest contributor to its “entropy” (that is, its susceptibility to brute-force attacks).
- A passphrase can be both longer and easier to remember. Try thinking of a sentence that contains the required elements. For example, “Today is Tuesday the 26th!” exceeds ARINCDirect’s requirements but is pretty easy to remember and type.
- Don’t reuse passwords; use a different password for each online account or service.
- Consider a password manager for generating and storing passwords securely.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- 2FA is “two-factor authentication,” which means you need two elements to log on (for example, your password and a one-time code generated on your phone). This is sometimes called MFA (multi-factor authentication).
- Enable 2FA whenever possible for your online accounts, particularly where sensitive personal or financial information is at stake.
Keep Software and Devices Updated
- Regularly update your operating system, software, and apps to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Select devices with a good track record for privacy and security.
- Enable automatic updates when available to ensure you're always running the latest, most secure versions.
Use a Firewall and Antivirus Software
- Install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices.
- Enable built-in firewalls or consider using third-party firewall software for an extra layer of protection.
Secure Your WiFi Network
- Change the default username and password for your WiFi router.
- Use strong encryption (WPA3 if available) for your WiFi network.
- Regularly update your router's firmware.
Be Cautious with Email
- Be wary of unsolicited emails, especially those with attachments or links.
- Verify the sender's identity before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
- Avoid sharing sensitive information via email.
Practice Safe Browsing
- Use HTTPS-enabled websites whenever possible.
- Be cautious when downloading files or clicking on links from untrusted sources.
- Install a reputable ad blocker and pop-up blocker.
Lock Down Smart Devices
- Change default passwords on smart home devices and ensure they receive security updates. This is easy to forget but very important.
- Limit the data these devices can access and be cautious about sharing personal information with them.
Protect Your Mobile Devices
- Use a lock screen or biometric authentication (such as fingerprint or face recognition) on your mobile devices.
- Install security apps to help locate, lock, or remotely wipe your device if it's lost or stolen.
Secure Your Social Media
- Review and update privacy settings on your social media profiles.
- Be cautious about sharing personal information and accept friend/follow requests only from people you know.
Monitor Your Accounts
- Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious transactions.
- If your bank or other financial institution supports it, set up account alerts for unusual activity.
Other Measures
- Stay informed about common cyber threats, such as phishing, ransomware, and social engineering.
- Backup your important files and data to an external drive or trusted cloud service frequently.
- Properly wipe and dispose of old devices to prevent data leakage. Use secure data erasure methods or services.
- Keep up with the latest cybersecurity news and trends to adapt your security practices as threats evolve.
- While VPNs seem to be used more for accessing corporate data, you should consider a VPN when on public WiFi networks.
Cybersecurity, personal or corporate, is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your personal security measures to stay protected against evolving threats and educate family members about the importance of cybersecurity and safe online practices.
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