Anyone who thinks he will not be affected by the Russian-Ukrainian war is completely mistaken. During World War II, conflict was limited to physical battlefields. Thanks to the Internet, cyber warfare is a new threat affecting all corners of the globe.
While attackers will likely focus on large businesses, agencies, and other organizations, those compromised can still impact you. For example, a Russian hacking group took credit for a recent McDonald’s breach, which puts your data at risk if you have an account with the company. Tap or click here to find out how the Russian attack on McDonald’s could be the first step in an all-out cyber war.
Act now to protect yourself from the onslaught of potential cyber threats. Check out this list of five ways to protect yourself. Make sure the following parts of your digital life are up to date and secure.
1. Router
It’s easy for hackers to break into your router. Once there, they can access any connected device, wreaking havoc on your digital life. That’s why you need to go to your router’s administration page and download security updates.
Here are some other ways to protect your router:
- Use encryption: Access the administration menu of your router. Under the “Wireless” or “Security” menu, you will see the encryption status. If you still have an older router, select one that starts with “WPA3”. If your router is not WPA3 compatible, “WPA2-PSK AES” is the second most secure option.
- Check your firewall: Most routers should have one, but you may need to check to be sure. Check your router’s advanced settings to confirm.
- Use optimized Quad9 DNS settings: This feature checks all the web links you click on against a huge intelligence database. It protects you from malicious links. Tap or click here to start using this powerful and free security tool.
- Deny remote access: Disable these settings completely. You will find them in your router settings under “Remote Administration”.
Taking these steps can do you a lot of good in the long run. If you want to go a step further and lock down your Internet of Things devices, we have a great tip for you. Tap or click here for a setting you need to change to prevent hackers from taking over your smart home devices.
2. Operating systems
You are putting yourself at risk if you are working on an old operating system. Updates usually include fixes for old bugs. If you haven’t updated, hackers could hurt you with old attacks that you could have easily protected yourself from.
How to update your PC
First, press the To start up menu button in the lower left corner of your screen.
- Then select Settings.
- Faucet Update and security.
- To choose Check for updates.
If an update is available, choose Download and install.
Follow these steps to update your Mac
First, you’ll want to click on the apple menu. It’s in the corner of your screen.
- Then select System Preferences.
- Click on Software update.
- Finally, hit Update now.
However, your computer is not the only gadget to update.
Don’t forget to update your iPhone!
These steps work for your iPhone, iPad, or iPad touch.
- Open the Settings.
- Faucet General.
- To select Software update.
- Faucet Install now.
Even if you don’t use Apple products, we’ve got you covered.
How to update your Android
- Open your phone Settings application.
- Near the bottom, press System.
- To select Advanced.
- Faucet System update.
If an update is available, follow the on-screen steps.
You’ll also want to use antivirus software on all of your devices, from your phones to your computers. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
3. Antivirus software is essential
You need a strong security suite for your devices. Antivirus software is essential to protect you against malware, ransomware, and other threats. Now that cyberattacks are on the rise and most of us use our devices at work, we have more to lose than ever.
Antivirus protects everything you do online. Whether it’s bank accounts, personal data, photos or conversations, there’s so much to preserve and protect. We recommend our sponsor, TotalAV.
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4. 2FA on financial accounts
There’s no tastier target for a hacker than your bank account. Once they have access to it, they can dry you out. In the blink of an eye, they steal your life savings and run off into the sunset like The Tinder Swindler.
This is why you need to take extra care with all financial accounts. Use complex and unique passwords with a healthy mix of numbers, symbols, and letters, both lowercase and capital letter. Tap or click here for five ways to create strong passwords that secure your accounts.
Don’t forget about two-factor authentication. Most major banks offer these features. For example, Chase Bank and Citibank automatically enable it by default.
However, you will need to register if you use Bank of America or Wells Fargo. Luckily, it’s pretty easy. Tap or click here to add two-factor authentication to your financial accounts. It’s a small precaution that makes a huge difference.
5. Smart home technology
Don’t forget to protect your smart gadgets with two-factor authentication as well. Otherwise, a creepy hacker might be talking to your kids through your smart speaker. (Yes, it happened – and it’s as disturbing as you’d imagine.)
It’s easy to do: Connect to the app that matches your smart home system. (For example, SimpliSafe or Ring.) Next, explore your settings and choose the option to enable two-factor authentication.
You should also lock your cameras with a strong password. Every three weeks, check your firmware to make sure your cameras and other devices are loaded with the latest firmware. Connect to the internet, let your cameras check for updates and accept the installation.
While you’re at it, remember that all the smart device is a potential gateway. We’re talking about smart plugs and even printers. Tap or click here to learn some ways to secure your printer so it can’t be hacked.
Read more
How to Prepare for Russia’s Imminent Cyberattacks on America
Cyberattacks in Ukraine could be a warning sign – Secure your systems
10 things (besides gasoline) that will become more expensive during the Russian-Ukrainian war
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