Control access to your devices
Secure your devices against unauthorized access just like you protect your home against burglary.
The key to security is proactive defense. The key is keeping systems and applications up to date. Regularly installing the latest updates for your operating system (such as Windows, macOS, or Linux) and all your software is extremely important , as they often contain fixes for critical security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit to infect devices. It is equally important to have and maintain active, reputable antivirus and antimalware software on all your devices.
Another pillar of protection is conscious access management . Use strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts. Avoid simple combinations and consider using a password manager to help you generate and securely store complex passwords. For added protection, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. It adds another layer of security by requiring additional verification in addition to your password, for example, via a code sent to your mobile.
It is also extremely important to be vigilant when using the Internet on a daily basis . Be especially cautious of suspicious messages , especially those with unexpected attachments or links. You can always hover over a link to see its true destination address before clicking on it (this address will appear in the lower left corner of your browser). Also, be wary of social engineering attempts, such as calls or Messages from strangers posing as tech Help Center. Avoid visiting suspicious websites and clicking on ads from unknown sources. You should also consider using ad blockers, which can reduce the risk of encountering malicious content.
Even with the best security measures, it's worth being prepared for the worst. Therefore, regular data backups are absolutely crucial . It is good practice to follow the 3-2-1 rule, which involves having at least three copies of important files stored on two different media, one copy of which should be located outside the home or office (off-site). In practice, this means regularly copying data to external drives and using cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDrive.
But what should you do if you do get infected? First of all, learn to recognize its symptoms. These may include: No access to files, the appearance of unusual ransom messages on the screen, or changes to file extensions (e.g. . on . locked or . encrypted). If you suspect an attack, immediately disconnect the infected device from the internet and local network. This will prevent the threat from spreading further and encrypting files on other devices.
