Cyber Security Tips

Cybersecurity Guide for Home and Business Users: Protecting Your Digital Assets

At Defendo Security, we understand that safeguarding your physical spaces is just one aspect of staying secure. In today’s digital world, protecting your online presence is equally important. 

Please take into consideration that our installations are cyber security oriented which is the most significant reason why our customers entrust us with their Video and Cyber Security needs.

Remember, in order to be cyber secure, it depends on our ability and discipline to stay safe and to educate us in every area that it relates to. As a first step toward achieving this, we need to understand Cyber-Security Awareness and practice it on a daily basis. 

Let's take a closer look at the concept of cyber-security awareness. Cyber-security awareness is the knowledge of identifying what electronic threats are, the risk they pose, and what steps you need to take to protect your assets. Everyone needs to understand that being self-aware of cyber threats is the first step to take as a countermeasure to minimize the risk of exposure.

As a commitment to help our clients deter known and unknown threats we have created the following quick guide for all users who want to educate themselves on the essentials of cyber security. 

Here’s the guide to help you enhance your cybersecurity and keep your data safe from potential threats. 

1.  Use Strong, Unique Passwords 

· Why: Weak or reused passwords are an easy target for hackers. 

· Tip: Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Consider using a password manager to store your credentials securely. 

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

· Why: MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or authentication app.

· Tip: Activate MFA on all critical accounts (email, banking, social media).

3. Keep Software Updated (Call us for preventive maintenance prices)

· Why: Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software.

· Tip: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and antivirus software to patch any security gaps.

4. Beware of Phishing Scams 

· Why: Phishing emails trick users into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information.

· Tip: Always verify the sender’s email address, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and don’t share personal information unless you’re certain of the recipient's legitimacy.

5. Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks 

·  Why: Public Wi-Fi can expose your data to hackers.

· Tip: Avoid accessing sensitive information on public networks. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for extra protection when connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi.

6. Backup Your Data Regularly 

· - Why: Ransomware and other attacks can lock or destroy your data.

· - Tip: Schedule regular backups of important files and store them in a secure, offline location.

7. Install Antivirus and Firewall Protection 

· Why: These tools help block malicious activity and unwanted intrusions.

· Tip: Make sure both your antivirus software and firewall are up-to-date and properly configured.

8. Limit Data Sharing on Social Media 

· Why: Cybercriminals can gather personal information from social profiles to launch targeted attacks.

· Tip: Review your privacy settings and be cautious about sharing personal details publicly.

9. Secure Your Devices 

· Why: Lost or stolen devices can expose sensitive data.

· Tip: Always lock your devices with a password, PIN, or biometric authentication, and enable remote wipe capabilities.

10. Educate Your Employees (For Businesses) (We offer Cyber Awareness Training. Please contact us for pricing)

· Why: Human error is one of the most common causes of security breaches.

· Tip: Provide regular cybersecurity training to your team, so they can recognize threats and respond appropriately.

11, Professional Product and Services. (Defendo has your Back)

- Why: High Network surface Exposure. 

- Tip: Lastly, for additional security for your business to maximize its potential without sacrificing safety, there are professional products and services that can help you minimize your network surface attack exposure. A Defendo we offer the following implementations:

- Limiting ports and services.

- New generation of firewalls

- Network Segmentation

- IPS/IDS Intrusion Prevention/Detection Systems

- Logging and log monitoring

- DNS Protection

- SDN for Administration

- Vulnerability and threat management.

Depending on your needs, you can secure your business network by using a combination of security tools and services based on your network’s structure, digital assets, and balance of on-premises systems, or cloud whether it is hybrid, private or public. 

Additionally, Video Security and Cyber Security Awareness in combination with Cyber security products and services will definitely help you increase your perimeter, network and host protection, and at the same time it will proactively lower your network surface attack exposure. 

Conclusion 

Cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and vigilance is key. By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to protect your digital assets from potential threats. At Defendo Security, we are committed to not only securing your physical space but also ensuring your digital safety.

For more information or help with cybersecurity solutions, feel free to reach out to us anytime!

Stay safe, 

The Defendo Security Team 

Omar Santos

CIO

424.228.6698