In just a few decades, we’ve gone from using clunky slow internet browsers to surfing the cyber village created by the sprawling World Wide Web. With all the benefits that come from being connected and having information at our fingertips comes new threats and challenges. Criminals loot corporate databases. Social media platforms attract hackers and practically invite digital identity theft. Viruses and phishing attacks are constantly a single click away.
Cyber statistics from Data Prot, a cybersecurity analysis firm, are unnerving:
- More than 1.76 billion corporate records were leaked in January 2019 alone.
- Ransomware attacks happen every 14 seconds.
- 43% of cyber attacks are targeted at small businesses.
- The average cost of a corporate data breach in 2020 will exceed $150 million.
- 65% of large companies have more than 500 employees who have never changed their passwords.
- Phishing emails are responsible for approximately 91% of cyber attacks against large corporations.
The statistics show that cybersecurity is more important than ever—both for home users and small and large businesses. Hackers are sneaky, creative, and increasingly sophisticated. With cyber attacks on the rise, it’s essential to protect yourself online. As a forensic accounting firm, SDC CPAs has helped analyze hundreds of claims involving computer fraud, funds transfer fraud, and fraudulent impersonation.
Unfortunately, many people inadvertently put themselves at risk by engaging in risky behaviors every day. Cybersecurity expert’s top five tips that apply to both individuals and companies include the following:
- Use strong passwords
“Did you know the most common password is “password”? Followed by “123456?” according to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. “Using your child’s name with their birthday isn’t much better.”
Picking a password that is easy is like locking your door but hanging the key on the doorknob. Anyone can get in. Using weak passwords is one of the most common mistakes people make. Passwords like the ones above are are easy to remember, but also easy for hackers to crack. Cybersecurity experts recommend using a strong, unique password for each account, consisting of a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Clicking on links from unknown sources
Phishing attacks are a common tactic hackers use to get hold of personal information. Phishing attacks typically come in the form of emails or messages with links to fake websites that look like legitimate ones, hoping that the user will enter their login information. Clicking on links from unknown sources can lead to malware downloads or identity theft. Be cautious and only click on links from trusted sources.
- Using public Wi-Fi without a VPN
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient, but they are also insecure. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, your data is transmitted in plain text, making it easy for hackers to intercept and steal. Cybersecurity experts recommend using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and protect your privacy when using public Wi-Fi.
- Ignoring software updates
Software updates often include security patches to fix vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Ignoring software updates can leave your computer or mobile device open to attacks. Cybersecurity experts recommend setting your devices to automatically install updates or manually checking for updates regularly.
- Sharing too much personal information on social media
Social media is a great way to connect with friends and family, but it’s also a goldmine of personal information for hackers. Cybersecurity experts recommend being cautious about what you share on social media, including your location, personal details, and even your travel plans. You never know who might be watching or using that information for malicious purposes.
Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, and it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime.
“Our world is increasingly digital and increasingly interconnected. So, while we must protect ourselves, it’s going to take all of us to really protect the systems we all rely on,” according to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. “Being cyber smart is contagious. Take the basic steps outlined above and help two friends do the same.”
Stay safe out there!
—
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. “4 Things You Can Do To Keep Yourself Cyber Safe.” Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, December 18, 2022. https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/news/4-things-you-can-do-keep-yourself-cyber-safe. Last accessed April 15, 2023.
Cveticanin, Nikolina. “Hacking Statistics to Give You Nightmares.” Data Prot, April 7, 2023. https://dataprot.net/statistics/hacking-statistics/. Last accessed April 15, 2023.