In today’s digitally connected world, the significance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. With rapid technological advancements come evolving threats in the online world that companies, especially in the construction, architecture, and engineering industries, cannot afford to ignore. Given that human error contributes to approximately 88% of data breaches, the role of informed behavior in cybersecurity cannot be underestimated.
The National Cybersecurity Alliance and CybSafe have taken steps to address the issue of poor cyber hygiene by annually publishing a report on cybersecurity attitudes and behaviors. The aim is to enlighten both individuals and businesses on best practices for securing digital spaces.
This year’s report, which surveyed over 6,000 people in North America and Europe, offers critical insights into how we perceive and tackle cyber threats and outlines steps for improving our cybersecurity stance.
We Are Online… a Lot
A staggering 93% of participants are online daily, which multiplies the number of sensitive accounts they hold. The fact that 47% have more than ten such accounts highlights a significant risk, particularly if individuals reuse passwords across multiple platforms.
Online Security Can Be Overwhelming
Although the majority view online security as crucial, a considerable portion of users feel frustrated (39%) and intimidated by it. Despite the challenges, we should not weaken our defenses and invite cyber threats into our digital lives.
Ways to Enhance Online Security:
- Enable multi-factor authentication
- Use email spam filters
- Implement DNS filters to block malicious sites
- Follow strong password best practices
Cybersecurity Training Is in Demand
With only 26% of the surveyed having access to cybersecurity training, there is a clear need for more educational resources. This is especially true for the unemployed or retired. For businesses, providing robust security awareness training can significantly mitigate the risk of data breaches.
Reporting Cybercrime Is on the Rise
Of the survey’s respondents, 27% have fallen victim to cybercrime, with phishing, online dating scams, and identity theft topping the list. Millennials reported the highest number of incidents, indicating that cybersecurity affects all generations.
Source: The Annual Cybersecurity Attitudes and Behaviors Report 2023
Regardless of age, adopting security best practices is crucial.
Online Security Best Practices to Reduce Your Risk
1. Strong, Unique Passwords:
Create robust, unique passwords for every account combining letters, numbers, and symbols.
2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
MFA can safeguard your accounts even if your passwords are compromised.
3. Regular Software Updates:
Update all software promptly to defend against the latest threats.
4. Beware of Phishing Attacks:
Be cautious with emails, links, and attachments from unknown sources.
5. Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks:
Only conduct sensitive transactions over secure connections, avoiding public Wi-Fi.
6. Data Backup:
Back up important data to external devices or secure cloud services.
7. Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software:
Utilize trustworthy security software and conduct regular scans.
8. Mindful Social Media Settings:
Adjust privacy settings to minimize public access to personal information.
9. Secure Your Personal Devices:
Protect your devices with strong passwords or biometric locks.
10. Educate and Stay Informed:
Stay vigilant by engaging in ongoing cybersecurity awareness programs.
Empower Your Business with a Cybersecurity Audit
Armed with knowledge and the right practices, you can vastly improve your digital defenses against a variety of cyber threats. Paronubi stands ready to empower you and your team with targeted cybersecurity training tailored to the unique needs of your business.
Don’t wait until a breach occurs. Contact Paronubi now to schedule a free cybersecurity audit.
