Get the basics of cybersecurity down during Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s critical that consumers are aware of the dangers should someone hack their accounts. There are plenty of ways for consumers to ensure their cyber security. Staying digitally connected has become a huge part of society, so the importance of being “cyber smart” means more now than ever. As always, hackers are learning new tricks to scam internet users, which means that consumers have to stay up to date and alert.

There are many tips and tricks to be cyber smart, but no one tip is foolproof. It’s important to study and research the best methods to protect your personal devices and information because every situation can be different. There are a multitude of different ways to practice and achieve cybersecurity, and there are always new methods to learn about protecting identity.

Taking preventative measures and making a habit of staying aware of possible scams can prove to be pivotal in the fight for cybersecurity. Protecting your personal identity can seem like a lot of work with a lot of the ins and outs, but the loss of time and money due to a hacker could be far more inconvenient.

Use BBB’s tips to manage at-home cybersecurity:

• Enable multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an important second check to verify your identity when logging into an account. MFAs add more of a challenge to hackers when attempting to break into somebody’s account. Whether a text confirmation, fingerprint or face ID, these can serve as invaluable in cyber protection.

• Use strong passphrases or a password manager. Many consumers overlook the importance of strong passphrases and using a password manager. Most people use short and familiar passwords because they are easy to remember. Passwords should be long and complex, which means a good way to keep track of these may be a password manager.

• Perform software updates. Performing regular software updates is an important part cybersecurity. Many consumers ignore computer prompts suggesting software updates because they don’t have enough time or it may be inconvenient. Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system is vital part of protecting a device against hackers.

• Do your research. Good online habits start with good research. Learn more about what is being downloaded on your device and what the risks are. Finding out more about how your device is being used can help a consumer learn what programs should and should not be used on it.

• Check your settings. Consumers should know about their privacy and security settings on any device being used. Learn who can access documents being used on the device such as – Google Docs, Zoom calls and other shared information.

If you spot a scam, whether you've lost money or not, report it to BBB’s Scam Tracker at BBB.org/ScamTracker and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Your story can help other consumers avoid similar scams.

Marjorie Stephens is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit www.bbb.org.