Cyber Security Tips for Writers
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I attended a cyber security discussion this week, and these are good reminders for anyone who is on the internet. Cybercrime is a real threat to everyone. (Thanks, Peter for the great presentation!)
Just like physical security, if you see something odd, say something.
Hackers look for easy routes to attack or access your system. Don’t be an easy target.
When you buy devices that connect to your home internet, make sure you change the password from the manufacturer’s settings. (This means cameras, routers, and other smart devices. These can also be hacked.)
Phones are easy targets for hackers. Make sure yours is secure. Be careful of public wifi.
Change your password frequently. Don’t use the same password for all of your sites.
People post a lot of personal information on social media sites. Don’t use your street name or pets’ names for passwords. Those passwords are easier to guess from the information you post on social media..
Passphrases are harder to guess. These are longer phrases or sentences that have meaning to you.
Everyone has a lot of passwords to remember. Don’t write them down. Use a password locker like KeePass or Password Safe to store them securely.
Don’t click on links you don’t recognize.
Never give out personal information unless you’re on a secure site (https).
Make sure you install updates and patches on your devices regularly. Many of these fix security issues.
Pay attention to details. Check your bank and credit card statements. Follow up if there are unknown charges (especially small ones).
Here are some terms that everyone needs to be aware of:
phishing - This is when someone sends an email, designed to look like one from a specific person or company to trick users into providing personal or financial information.
spear phishing - This is when a phishing campaign is targeted at specific people.
vishing - This is when someone calls or leaves voicemail messages that appears to come from a reputable company. The idea is to trick the person into revealing personal or financial information.
SMishing - This is the practice of sending text messages with the intent of tricking the receiver into providing personal or financial information. (It gets its name from SMS Short Message Service [texting]).
juice jackng - This is when a public charging station is contaminated with malware or viruses that infect the unsuspecting user.
It’s a big, crazy world out there. Be careful and be aware.
