October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an annual initiative to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. Each week Technology Services will share tips and practices designed to improve your cybersecurity knowledge.

At a time when engaging online is part of everyday life, being “cyber smart” is of the utmost importance. Maintaining stellar online security habits is the best way to protect yourself, the University and others while online.

No single tip is foolproof but taken together they can make a real difference for taking control of your online security. Be “cyber smart” with these tips:

Use safe behavior online
Pause and think carefully before clicking on links in emails, messages or on social networking sites. Don’t click on links in messages if you don’t know the sender or if the message is unexpected. If you think a link looks suspicious or you can’t tell where it leads to, do not click, but hover over it to see the actual web address (usually shown at the bottom of the browser window). If you do not recognize or trust the address, try searching for relevant key terms in a web browser. Proactive online safety tips: staysafeonline.org/blog/proactive-online-safety-tips

Enable two-factor authentication (DUO at the University)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a combination of something that you know (password) and something that you have (phone, tablet, etc.). Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds that necessary second step to verify your identity when logging in to your account, providing additional protection, even if someone obtains your password. In this way, 2FA makes it more difficult for a bad actor to break into your account. Fresno State’s 2-Step verification:
fresnostate.edu/help/fac-staff/security/twostepverification/index.html

Perform software updates
When a device prompts that it’s time to update the software, it may be tempting to simply click postpone and ignore the message. However, having the latest security software, web browser and operating system on devices is one of the best defenses against online threats. So, don’t wait, Update. Better, yet turn on automatic updates on your device, programs and apps.

Check your settings
Be diligent to double check your privacy and security settings and be aware who can access your documents. This extends from Google docs to Zoom calls and beyond. Check settings to ensure you are not sharing information with those that you did not intend to. In addition, it is always good to check your social media privacy settings regularly to make sure information you don’t want public isn’t being shared without your knowledge. Manage your privacy settings at:
staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/managing-your-privacy/manage-privacy-settings

Do your research
Do some research before downloading anything new to your device such as apps. Where you download apps from and how you use them plays a key role in keeping your device secure. Before downloading any new app on your device make sure it is from websites that you trust, such as official app stores or legitimate organizations. Check who created the app and if there are any articles published online about the app’s privacy and security features.

Use strong passphrases
Using long, complex, and unique passwords for each account is a good way to stop your account from being hacked. An easy way of keeping track and remembering your passwords is by using a password manager. ​​Tips for passwords and securing your account:
staysafeonline.org/resource/stop-think-connect-tips-passwords-securing-accounts