• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Commonwealth Sentinel

Kentucky Cyber Security

MENUMENU
  • Home
  • About
    • About: Sheri Donahue
    • About: Leo Haggerty
    • Career Opportunities
  • Services
    • Vulnerability and Threat Evaluation
    • Transformation Management
    • CISO Management Services
    • Incident Response Management
  • News
  • Blog
  • FAQs
  • Contact Us
You are here: Home / Blog / Tips / Basic Cyber Hygiene

commonsent / October 7, 2021

Basic Cyber Hygiene

Basic Cyber Hygiene

Passwords

Don’t use passwords. Instead, use PassPhrases. That is, instead of trying to come up with a complicated word, use a phrase or a sentence. One you can remember, of course. A phrase longer than 12 characters is better than a complex password with a lot of symbols.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Or sometimes called Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) has become the hottest topic in cyber security. It requires at least 2 manners of authentication. Therefore, in addition to your passphrase (see above), you are also required to provide another form of identification whether biometric, one-time code (via text, email or authenticator app on your phone), or a smart key (fob that generates a one-time code).

Links

Be wary of links in social media posts, text messages, or emails. Especially be suspicious of anything from a stranger.

Update

Keep all operating systems, software, and applications updated. Check often for updates or, better yet, have your devices set to update automatically.

3-2-1 Backup

Be sure to backup all your important documents, work, and photos. Backup frequently or set this to be automated as well. Keep 3 copies of your data – store 2 copies on different media – keep 1 copy located offsite.

Privacy

Whenever downloading a new program/app or setting up a new device, configure the privacy and security settings to your comfort level. Check your privacy and security settings at least once a year to ensure you are still okay with how they are set.

Social Media

Be careful about how much personal information you share online. You may even choose to create a profile in a different name in order to limit the amount of information strangers can access about you.

WiFi

Be careful when using public WiFi networks or hotspots. They are NOT secure. If you do use it, DO NOT access your bank accounts or other sensitive data while on that network. If necessary, use a virtual private network (VPN) or use a personal hotspot for a more secure connection. Most cell phone plans allow you to set up your own hotspot. Check with your provider.

Filed Under: Tips

Footer

CONTACT US

Address:
Commonwealth Sentinel Cyber Security
1230 Us Highway 127 S Suite 5 Frankfort KY 40601
Phone:
(502) 320-9885

ABOUT US

Cyber security consulting for local governments, non-profit organizations, and small businesses facing the threats of the cyber world.  At Commonwealth Sentinel, we are passionate about helping people be cyber-safe!

FOLLOW US

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Phone
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Copyright © 2023 Commonwealth Sentinel

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT