Stay safe online this Cybersecurity Month, says web crime expert
Posted October 16, 2021 3:50 pm.
Last Updated October 16, 2021 4:04 pm.
Cyber risks continue to grow as criminals get crafty with their computers and tech. But are you doing the right things to ensure you’re keeping your information safe?
Cybercrime is a pandemic of its own, says Derek Manky with Fortinet’s Fortiguard Labs. And in time for Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October, he has tips for keeping your information safe.
“It’s not a matter of if, but when. Everybody is vulnerable to this,” he said.
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Manky compares making sure you’re well-protected online to “washing your cyber hands.”
If you don’t, the consequences can be dire. The damage caused by data breaches has cost individuals and businesses as much as $4 million U.S., he says.
“It’s flourishing because the cybercriminal ecosystem is growing. They’re getting more profits. They’re getting deeper funding. They’re becoming more organized,” said Manky.
People have even been selling fake COVID-19 and vaccine passports on the dark web, he adds.
Many web users are still not careful enough when it comes to protecting their personal information, says Manky. It takes more than setting a strong password to stay secure.
“It’s good to change your passwords frequently; we always recommend that. But, having something on your mobile phone [like a] second security challenge-response code, that is an absolute gold standard now,” he said.
Niamh Martin’s business was almost destroyed by a hacker, tune in next week to see her true story. https://t.co/YqRnjguOMT #CyberSecMonth #ThinkB4UClick pic.twitter.com/EqJlwX8yQg
— Cyber Security Month (@CyberSecMonth) October 15, 2021
His company hopes to make new hires soon, with over three million unfilled jobs globally waiting to be filled.
“People think it’s this very complex world, and it certainly can be. But there are a lot of simple steps for us to follow,” he said.
