Cybersecurity isn’t just about responding to threats. It’s also about building healthy habits that help prevent problems before they happen.
Just like wearing a seatbelt or locking your doors, good cyber hygiene includes simple actions that become part of your everyday routine. While each step may seem small on its own, together they can significantly reduce opportunities for cybercriminals.
As Cybersecurity Awareness Month comes to a close, here are a few easy ways to strengthen your security at work, at home and on the road.
Secure Your Home Network
Your home Wi-Fi network is often the gateway to your connected devices and personal information.
Take a few minutes to:
- Change default router passwords.
- Install firmware and security updates when available.
- Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password.
- Ensure your network uses current security settings.
- Restart your router periodically to help apply updates and maintain performance.
- Consider placing smart devices on a separate guest network when available. This can help prevent a compromised device from accessing other devices on your home network.
Keep Devices Updated
Software updates aren’t just about new features. They often include fixes for security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals actively look to exploit.
Whenever possible:
- Install operating system updates promptly.
- Keep browsers and applications up to date.
- Update mobile devices regularly.
- Remove software you no longer use.
Delaying updates can leave devices exposed to known threats.
Be Smart When You are on the Go
Cybercriminals often target people when they are traveling or working outside of the office.
Whether you are at an airport, hotel, coffee shop, or conference:
- Be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
- Avoid accessing sensitive information on unsecured networks.
- Use approved security tools and services when working remotely.
- Be mindful of who can see your screen in public spaces.
- Avoid plugging devices into unfamiliar public charging stations or USB ports.
Convenience should never come at the expense of security.
Clean Up Your Digital Clutter
Good cyber hygiene also means keeping your digital environment organized.
Consider taking a few minutes to:
- Clear browser cache and cookies periodically.
- Remove unused browser extensions.
- Delete old files you no longer need.
- Review saved passwords and accounts for exposure.
- Log out of applications you’re no longer using.
Pause Before You Share
Not every cybersecurity habit involves technology. Before sharing information online, posting on social media, or sending an email, take a moment to consider:
- Does this need to be shared?
- Am I sharing it with the right audience?
- Could this information be used by someone with bad intentions?
- Am I ok with this information being on the Internet forever?
Healthy Habits = Stronger Security
There’s no single action that will stop every cyber threat. Instead, strong cybersecurity comes from consistently practicing good habits over time. As Cybersecurity Awareness Month wraps up, challenge yourself to adopt one new cyber habit and stick with it.
Good cyber hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your personal information.
Additional Resources from Regions.com
The information presented is general in nature and should not be considered, legal, accounting or tax advice. Regions reminds its customers that they should be vigilant about fraud and security and that they are responsible for taking action to protect their computer systems. Fraud prevention requires a continuous review of your policies and practices, as the threat evolves daily. There is no guarantee that all fraudulent transactions will be prevented or that related financial losses will not occur. Visit regions.com/STOPFRAUD or speak with your Banker for further information on how you can help prevent fraud.