1. Recognize phishing
Most successful online intrusions result from a recipient of a “phishing” message accidentally downloading malware or giving their personal information to a spammer. Do not click or engage with these phishing attempts. Instead, recognize them by their use of alarming language or offers that are too good to be true. Delete phishing messages.
2. Use strong passwords
Simple passwords can be guessed. Make passwords at least 16 characters long, random and unique for each account. Use a password manager, a secure program that maintains and creates passwords. This easy-to-use program will store passwords and fill them in automatically on the web.
3. Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA)
Use MFA on any site that offers it. MFA provides an extra layer of security in addition to a password when logging into accounts and apps, like a face scan or a code sent by text. Using MFA will make you much less likely to get hacked.
4. Update software
When devices, apps or software programs (especially antivirus software) notify you that updates are available, you should install them as soon as possible. Updates close security code bugs to better protect your data. Turn on automatic updates to make it even easier.
Taking these steps helps secure our world.
We can all help one another stay safer online, so share these tips with a family member or friend!
For more information, please visit Cisa.gov/SecureOurWorld.