Time to come out from under your see-through cloak: The most common password in the world is still “123456”. Despite all the advancements in cybersecurity, many people still use weak passwords, making it easy for hackers to break into accounts. This highlights the importance of creating strong, unique passwords to ensure your online security!
Reduce your risk of falling victim to cybercrime by following these 7 Top Cybersecurity Tips:
- Create strong, unique passwords: Combine letters, numbers, and special characters. Don’t use the same password on multiple accounts. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely. Tip: Use a standard combination of letters and numbers and then apply a pattern based on the domain name of the web site you are on. e.g. Standard Combination: Name-pl,MKO)School; Pattern – for example add the domain name extension to the end or the beginning (or both or your choice of position) of your Standard Combination. So for MyZA you would use Name-pl,MKO)School.co.za as your password and for Google you would use Name-pl,MKO)School.com (substitute ‘Name’ and ‘School’ with applicable values and the -pl,MKO) section with a combination you will remember).
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This extra layer of protection means a second form of verification, such as a specific one-time code that is sent to your phone and is required before any access or approval can be given.
- Adopt a zero-trust approach: Rather be safe than sorry. Treat every message from an unknown sender or service provider as suspicious until you’ve verified it. Especially if it asks you to click on a link, or update details.
- Update your software: Regularly update your devices and apps to protect yourself against the latest security vulnerabilities. Set up automatic updates wherever possible.
- Use antivirus software: Install reliable antivirus software and ensure you have a firewall enabled. This helps protect your devices from malware, viruses, and cyber threats.
- Be cautious on public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities such as online banking or shopping. If necessary, use your mobile data or a personal hotspot for a more secure connection.
- Interact with secure websites only: Check if a website displays as “https” in the URL before entering personal or financial information etc.; the “s” stands for secure, meaning the site is using encryption to protect your data transmission.
What is Fraud? “Fraud” is any activity that relies on deception in order to achieve a gain. Fraud becomes a crime when it is a “knowing misrepresentation of the truth or concealment of a material fact to induce another to act to his or her detriment” (Black’s Law Dictionary). In other words, if you lie in order to deprive a person or organization of their money or property, you’re committing fraud.