A threat to society is a threat to humanity. Crime remains a hinder in the development process for today’s civilization. Cyberspace has brought about another form of crime known as cybercrime by some illicit members of society. It has to be a threat to both individuals, businesses, and the government.

However, cyberspace’s introduction has brought lots of innovation and benefits to man’s existence, especially in information dissemination and data protection for as long as it is stored properly.

Lately, cybercrime has been spiraling in the world today, and the need to curb cybercrime has to be the central focus of the Information and technology industry. However, since no one is immune to this attack, so how do you reduce it and protect your data from illegal accessibility without having an expert around is what we are about to know.

Ways to Reduce the Risk of Cybercrime and Protect Your Data

1. Step up your security system

There should be guidelines and control measures you should follow when using your device and software. For example, to have maximum security, ensure to use a long, strong, and complex password, preferably an alphanumeric combination, and other security requirements, making you less vulnerable to becoming a cyberattack victim. It is also advisable to change your password every six months and avoid using the same password for multiple websites.

2. Constant updating of device

Attacks through cybercrime mostly gain access by knowing the flaws of software and operating system functioning on your device;updating software and the operating system helps ensure managing patches effectively for you and keeps your data safe from illegitimate access.

3. Use of antivirus and antimalware protection software

When cyberattacks like viruses, malware, phishing, and SQL injection attack are identified on your system, can cause a lot of damage to your device and data. Most devices come with antivirus and antimalware software with free trials, renewed by purchasing it once the trial period is over. Even though, most internet service provider offers free subscription, which cannot be highly effective for a business that requires extra protection. You must keep the application updated and run a scan, preferably once a week, to prevent your data and system from been prone to any attack at that moment.

4. Back up your data on a computer

No matter how good a device can be, it prone to crash. However, with the use of a secure cloud provider like Google, iCloud, and box, you can  backup your data to the cloud storage space, thereby preventing data loss or illegal access to your information. An external hard drive can also act as an additional backup for irreplaceable files. Also, it is crucial to be very cautious when uploading financial or personal details to avoid illegal access to data.

5. Improve your home network

You might want to prioritize more attention in managing all of your devices which is brilliant, but focusing on stepping up the security of your internet router can protect you from the risk of cyberattacks on both your data and device entirely. Your ISP (internet service provider) provides a default password, ensures this password is changed, and select the required encryption, preferably Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2). Also, try to check how many devices are connected to your router. You may be surprised to see the number of things connected to it.

6. Educate people around you.

Never assume your device is secured if you have people around you. Young children are prone to cyberattack a lot. Due to the fact, they spend most time being online and get to visit any sites without checking if the site is secured or not. Since older family members have an essential document, making them prone to cyberattack. It is important to educate anyone on keeping control of their information and be extra vigilant about cyberattacks when using a device.

7. Understand and protect against identity theft

Since information like personal details, financial documents, and tax returns are the main target for cybercrime activities, it is crucial to ensure that this information is not disclosed to anyone over the internet or by phone. By following the best practices against identity theft, like avoiding unverified links, blocking smishing attacks, prevents illegal access to information targetted by cybercriminals. Nevertheless, ensure you review your credit report frequently to be sure your data is intact.

You can reduce the risk of cybercrime and protect your data by following the best practices illustrated above. With these methods, you can continuously improve your data and device security without having a technical expert.

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