Simple Changes Keep Your Network Secure
Here are steps you can take with your hardware and software to reduce your risk:
- Upgrade to a modern operating system and keep it up to date. Secure routing devices and ensure they are updated regularly.
- Implement WPA3 or WPA2 on your wireless network for enhanced encryption.
- Implement wireless network segmentation to separate sensitive data traffic from other types of network activity.
- Employ firewall capabilities to block unauthorized access to your network.
- Leverage security software to detect and prevent malicious activity.
- Limit your use of the administrator account to reduce potential attack vectors.
- Safeguard against eavesdropping by encrypting your communications.
- Limit administration access to the internal network only.
- Schedule frequent device reboots to reduce vulnerabilities.
- Set up a secure connection for telework, such as a VPN, to protect remote work activity.
- Upgrade to a modern browser and ensure it stays up to date.
- Set up authentication safeguards, such as two-factor authentication, for extra protection.
- Configure your email client to use TLS (Secure IMAP or Secure POP3) to encrypt emails in transit between the mail server and your device.
Behavioral Shifts Make a Difference
In addition to physical and process changes, your behavior plays a crucial role in improving cybersecurity. Here are best practices to follow when you get online:
- Keep online activities separate, especially work and personal activities. Use separate devices for activities like banking, online shopping, or social media to reduce the risk of a breach. Avoid using personal accounts for work-related tasks.
- Limit your use of public wireless networks. Public networks are often insecure, putting your data and devices at risk. Use a wireless hotspot or VPN instead.
- Protect yourself on social media. Set your profiles to private or “friends only” to limit exposure to unknown individuals. Avoid posting sensitive information like your address or phone number. Be cautious with friend requests and links from unknown sources, as they could be phishing attempts.
- Follow email best practices. Avoid opening unknown attachments or clicking suspicious links. Be cautious with out-of-office messages, as they can provide hackers with useful information about your schedule.
- Use good password hygiene. Create strong, unique passwords for each account. Consider using a password manager to help manage and secure your passwords.
Adopt NSA Best Practices to Keep Data Safe
As remote work and digital processes grow, cyber criminals are increasingly targeting home networks. By taking proactive steps now—both in your network setup and daily habits—you can reduce the risk of having your network compromised. Remember, safeguarding your personal and professional information is essential, and no one wants to be the person who inadvertently causes a breach by falling for a phishing scam.
