Cyber smart, that is!
This week is Cyber Smart Week in New Zealand. With security threats on the rise, it’s more important than ever to up your online defences and protect yourself against cybercrime.
Question 1: Have you upsized your passwords?
According to CERT NZ, one of the best ways to ‘cyber up’ is to create long and strong passwords. They recommend using a phrase made up of four or more words and using a different password for every account.
Don’t worry, you don’t need to remember them all – you can store your passwords with a password manager.
Find out more about creating a good password and using a password manager here.
Question 2: Do you use two-factor authentication?
Don’t worry, it sounds more complicated than it is.
When you log into an account with just a username and password, you’re using single factor authentication.
When you use two-factor authentication, you have to provide additional information to prove it’s really you. Common examples include security questions (like your pet’s name) and pin numbers. This adds another layer of security to your account and an additional defence against cyber threats.
Find out more about using two-factor authentication here.
Question 3: Are you careful about what you share?
We’re all guilty of over-sharing sometimes, but it’s important to be careful about how much personal information you share online. Keeping your cards close to your chest makes it more difficult for online attackers to impersonate you online.
There are little things you can do to uphold your privacy, like turning your social media settings to Friends Only, or thinking twice about giving out your middle name and phone number.
Find out more about protecting your privacy online here.
Question 4: Do you update your apps and devices?
Or are you in the ‘remind me tomorrow’ camp?
Updates often include new security features and fixes, so the more you delay it, the more vulnerable you are to cyber threats.
Keeping up with your updates is an easy way to protect yourself and your data.
Find out more about updating your devices and software here.
Question 5: Do you know how to report a cyber security incident?
If you, or someone you know, experiences a cyber security incident, report it to CERT NZ. They’re here to help New Zealanders to protect and recover from cyber security threats and incidents.
Click here to report an issue.
If you got five out of five in this quiz, congratulations, you’re the cyber-smartest person we know!
If there’s a little room for improvement, visit the CERTNZ website for practical information and advice on cyber security: https://www.cert.govt.nz/individuals/guides/