Maintaining Cybersecurity Practices at Home

In a post-COVID world, where working remotely has become increasingly common, our homes have become a place of work for many of us. As we work remotely, we must remind ourselves that securing our homes is just as important as securing a workplace. In this week’s blog post, we will be discussing the best practices to maintain proper cybersecurity hygiene while working from home.  

Securing your personal device 
a. Updating your software:
Making sure your software is up to date helps ensure your device and your data is secure. Vulnerable software creates easier access to cybercriminals and for dangerous malware to be downloaded on your personal device. 

b. Enabling Firewall Protection:
Activating firewall protection on your device can help you monitor incoming and outgoing traffic, and will help obstruct unauthorized access. 

c. Installing Antivirus Software: 
Antivirus software adds an extra layer of security to your device, identifying and blocking dangerous viruses from attacking.  

d. Encrypting and Backing Up Your Data: 
By encrypting important data on your device, such as personal information, you can ensure external users are not able to access it. Many computers have encryption systems already built in to be enabled, but you can download encryption software for free online as well. Backing up your data will benefit you in the event of a security breach, making it easier to restore files, images, and more.  

Securing your home network 
a. Using a Strong Wi-Fi Password: 
Applying proper password creation practices to your Wi-Fi network will prevent unauthorized users from accessing and using your home Wi-Fi, elevating network security.  

b. Changing Default Login Credentials: 
Along with creating strong Wi-Fi passwords, you should also create a strong router name and password to block outside user access. You can typically log into your router settings online or through an app, based on the router that you have in your home. 

c. Updating Router Firmware:  
Although many people may not know this, a Wi-Fi router can and should also be updated the same as any other device Doing so will avoid creating a vulnerable router that can easily be accessed. 

As we continue to convert our homes to a place of work, we must integrate these practices into our daily life to ensure they can also continue to stay a place of peace of mind. 
 
By Raksha Adama