Summer is here! That means it's time to soak up the sun, hit the beach, and relax. Before you pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, take some precautions to keep your devices safe. After all, dealing with a cyberattack is no way to spend a relaxing day by the shore.
Follow our simple tips to keep your devices and data secure.
Give your devices some cybersecurity sunscreen
We all know the importance of applying sunscreen - and sometimes even reapplying. Like we need sunscreen to protect us from the sun, our devices need patches to protect them from malicious intruders. This means making sure your devices and software have the latest updates installed. These updates often contain critical security fixes, so don't let your defenses weaken! Like to opt for extra protection? Enable automatic updates so you won't have to worry about forgetting.
Your beach house isn't the only thing that needs a lock
Keep Your devices physically secure from theft. The beach beckons, but so do pickpockets! Treat your devices like your favorite beach bag – keep them with you at all times. Avoid leaving them unattended on towels or chairs. If you’re taking a dip, consider using a secure locker. Keeping your devices close by or locked up makes it much harder for bad actors to steal them. Always ensure that any devices storing sensitive, confidential data are encrypted.
Ensure your devices are password protected. You wouldn’t leave your beach house unlocked. You also shouldn’t leave your phone, tablet, or laptop unlocked, either. Think of a screen lock as the deadbolt on your digital beach house. It deters anyone from trying to steal your data while you’re catching some rays. Setting a screen lock also helps ensure if your device gets lost or stolen your data stays secure.
Don't let your data wash away
A single wave can wipe out your beach umbrella in seconds. Don't let the same happen to your precious memories! Backing up your data regularly is like having a sturdy beach bag for your digital belongings. Even if the unexpected happens, your photos, videos, and important files will be safe and sound. Think of it as having a safe deposit box for your digital memories – a place where they're protected from the elements and unexpected disasters. Ensure backups are encrypted if they are storing any sensitive or confidential data.
Beware of phishing hooks
Summer is a prime time for phishing scams. Phishing emails or messages often try to lure you in with the promise of free summer fun or travel deals. But these are just bait on a hook, designed to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware. Be wary of any emails or messages that seem too good to be true, especially if they come from unknown senders.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your summer adventures and your devices stay safe from cybercriminals. So, relax, unwind, and enjoy the beach – but remember, a little cybersecurity awareness goes a long way!