image-beat-the-clockIf your PC or network is breached, you have to beat the clock to avoid catastrophe.  Do you remember the TV game show, Beat the Clock?  That show debuted in 1950 and has run in various forms right through 2003.  Unlike that fun game, there is no prize to win when a security issue arises in your network.  Here are 10 ways to be “ahead of the game” as it relates to Cybersecurity.  Each of them can be spoken in 10 seconds!  That’s our best version of Beat the Clock!  How about that?  Here it goes:

  1. Backup your files – Put in place an automated backup and recovery plan for key data residing on your network vital for every computer user and organization.
  2. Trust your gut – If a website, email or window on your PC says something that sounds ominous or too good to be true, it probably is.  Ignore or delete it.
  3. Use strong passwords – Use at least 12 characters and a mix of characters, caps and symbols. Change them frequently, and never replicate your email password.
  4. Limit Admin accounts – Always run your PC as a non-administrator unless strictly necessary. The Admin account is the front door for piracy and security lapses.
  5. Enable the firewall – This magical device is powerfully strong. It is a key component of your defense!  Ensure it is enabled to securely manage inbound and outbound traffic.
  6. Beware of wireless – Enable encryption, turn off SSID broadcasting and use the MAC filtering feature. Be wary whenever out of the office using Wi-Fi.
  7. Use anti-virus and anti-spyware – These applications stop viruses, worms and other malware. They can also stop pop-ups and other threats.  Keep licenses up to date.
  8. Protect mobile devices – Always use passwords, screen locks and auto locks on mobile devices. Encrypt data transmissions when possible.
  9. Update, update, update – Software vendors continually find vulnerabilities and thus provide updates to fix them. Set devices to auto update to stay secure!
  10. Train staff – Most cybersecurity breaches happen because of human error. Train your staff on how to be more secure—we can help!

The cybersecurity clock is ticking!  Call IT Radix today, and we’ll help you implement the above 10 security solutions within your business so you’ll be one step ahead of the game and beat the clock before the cybersecurity clock beats you!

First published in our August 2016 IT Radix Resource newsletter

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