Hackers are continuously evolving their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. To ensure the safety and security of your business and clients, it is imperative to adopt proactive measures to protect sensitive data from hackers.
Contact Your IT Staff
IT professionals can provide valuable guidance on implementing cybersecurity strategies, conduct risk assessment, identify emerging threats, and help mitigate potential threats.
Implement Strong Passwords
One of the simplest yet most effective strategies to protect against hackers is to use strong passwords. Create unique and complex passwords that include a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Regularly Update Software
Outdated software and systems are often riddled with security vulnerabilities that can be exploited. Ensure that all devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, are equipped with the latest operating systems, security patches, and antivirus software. Regularly updated and patching software helps address security flaws and protect against emerging threats.
Secure Wi-Fi Networks
Be cautious with unsecured Wi-Fi networks that can serve as entry points for hackers to gain access to sensitive information. It’s important to secure your Wi-Fi networks with strong passwords and encryption protocols such as WPA2 or WPA3. Change the default router login credentials and disable remote management features to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are a common tactic used by hackers to trick individuals into revealing confidential information. Beware of suspicious emails, messages, or links, verify the authenticity of any communication, especially those requesting sensitive data, by directly contacting the sender through a trusted channel.
Encrypt Sensitive Data
Encrypting sensitive data ensures that even if it falls into the wrong hands, it remains unreadable and unusable. Use robust encryption methods to protect data at rest and in transit, including using secure file transfer protocols and encrypting hard drives and portable storage devices.
Regular Data Backups
Data loss can occur due to various reasons, including cyberattacks or hardware failures. Regularly back up data to secure locations, both locally and in cloud software. Automated backup solutions can offer an additional layer of protection by ensuring critical data is continuously and securely stored.
Educate and Train Staff
Human error is often a weak link in cybersecurity defenses. Regular training about cybersecurity best practices, identifying and reporting potential threats, and safe browsing habits can help minimize risk.
Reporting Cybercrimes
If you believe you are a victim of cybercrime, you can report and submit the cybercrime to ic3.gov. ic3.gov is a joint initiative platform created by the Federal Bureau of investigation (FBI), the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C), and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). Ic3.gov helps businesses and individuals who are a victim of cybercrime.
Citations:
Cybersecurity checklist: Best Practices For Real Estate Professionals. www.nar.realtor. (2017, June 9). https://www.nar.realtor/law-and-ethics/cybersecurity-checklist-best-practices-for-real-estate-professionals#:~:text=Never%20click%20on%20unknown%20attachments,services%20used%20in%20the%20transaction.
Protecting your business and your clients from Cyberfraud. www.nar.realtor. (2015, November 24). https://www.nar.realtor/law-and-ethics/protecting-your-business-and-your-clients-from-cyberfraud
Internet crime complaint center (IC3).| Home Page. (n.d.). https://www.ic3.gov/