We hear about hacking, malware attacks and cyber threats almost every day. But how concerned are people about them, and how do they think such attacks will affect them?
A recent security poll conducted by a computer security firm, CGI Software, asked 1,000 U.S. office workers about their perceptions concerning impending cyber attacks. The results show that more than 90% of workers are more concerned or just as concerned as they previously were about suffering an attack.
When asked specifically what they were concerned about, the workers’ responses indicated:
- 51% Can make life more difficult
- 44% Personal data may be stolen
- 37% Can hinder business
- 35% May escalate from cyberspace to real world
- 28% Can affect connected devices
- 6% Not concerned
Anyone can be a target of cybercrime. With so many concerns about the effects of the disruption of computers and telecommunications, individuals and businesses alike must be vigilant in their security practices to avoid becoming victims. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security offers these practical tips to protect yourself and lessen the risks:
- Set secure passwords and don’t share them with anyone. Avoid using common words, phrases, or personal information and update regularly.
- Keep your operating system, browser, anti-virus and other critical software up to date. Security updates and patches are available for free from major companies.
- Verify the authenticity of requests from companies or individuals by contacting them directly. If you are asked to provide personal information via email, you can independently contact the company directly to verify this request.
- Pay close attention to website URLs. Pay attention to the URLs of websites you visit. Malicious websites sometimes use a variation in common spelling or a different domain (for example, .com instead of .net) to deceive unsuspecting computer users.
- For e-mail, turn off the option to automatically download attachments. And don’t open any attachments or click on links in e-mails that are unsolicited or appear suspicious.
References: YouTube, CGI Software, Department of Homeland Security