October marks Cyber Security Awareness Month, a crucial time to reflect on the importance of protecting ourselves and our information in the digital age.
As we rely more on the internet, the risk of cyber threats and attacks increases. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, the dangers are ever-present and evolving.
At Admiral, we want to make sure everyone is safe on the internet. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help keep you safe online.
Follow our essential tips and practices to improve your security and protect you from any online fraudulent activity.
What is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?
Cybersecurity Awareness Month was originally an American campaign that was launched in October 2004. It’s now known and practised around the world.
The purpose of Cybersecurity Awareness Month is to raise awareness about cybersecurity risks and threats, so that people can recognise and avoid them when using their devices.
What are cyber security threats?
Cyber security threats are factors that pose a risk to your privacy and safety when using computers, phones, laptops, and so on.
Cyber threats come in many forms, including:
- Phishing attacks: Misleading emails or messages that trick you into revealing personal information
- Malware: Malicious software designed to damage or disable computers
- Ransomware: A type of malware that locks you out of your system until a ransom is paid
- Identity theft: The fraudulent activity of using someone’s personal information
Recognising these threats is the first step in protecting yourself and staying safe online.
Essential tips for staying safe online
Follow our tips for improving your online security:
Update software regularly
Always keep your operating system, software and apps up to date. Regular updates can stop hackers from potentially getting hold of your personal information.
Use strong, unique passwords
Create complex passwords using a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Adding an extra layer of security, such as a code sent to your phone, can make it harder for cybercriminals to access your accounts.
Be wary of suspicious emails and links
Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or unexpected sources. Always check the authenticity of the sender.
Secure your Wi-Fi network
Use strong passwords for your home Wi-Fi network and consider changing the default login credentials for your router. Encrypting your network can protect it from unauthorised access.
Back up your data
Regularly back up important data to an external drive or cloud storage. This will make sure that you can recover your information in case of a cyber attack or hardware failure.
Use antivirus and anti-malware software
Reliable security software can spot and remove threats before they cause any harm to your device. Make sure it’s set to update automatically.
Monitor your accounts
Regularly review your bank statements, credit reports and online accounts for any suspicious activity. The sooner you spot any unusual transactions, the more of a chance you can stop any further damage to your accounts.
How to protect your privacy
With the rise of social media and online services, maintaining privacy is more challenging than ever. Here are some more steps you can take to protect your personal information:
Adjust privacy settings
Review and adjust the privacy settings on social media platforms and online services to control who can see your information.
Limit sharing personal information
Be careful when sharing personal details like your address, phone number or birth date online.
Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can encrypt your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to access your data, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
Cyber Security Awareness Month serves as a reminder that online safety is a shared responsibility.
Consider using the tips in this guide, stay up to date on the latest security trends and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if needed. Stay safe online!
Admiral’s Personal Cyber and Identity Theft Helpline
If you have Platinum Home Insurance with us or have Family Legal Protection added to your home insurance policy, you have access to our Personal Cyber and Identity Theft Helpline.
This helpline can be used to get support and advice from experienced fraud and cyber specialists if you’ve fallen victim to things like:
- identity theft
- fraudulent fund transfer
- cyber extortion
- financial loss
- breach of personal information
- cyber bullying
The helpline can help you with a range of things, including:
- documenting evidence and filling reports
- notifying authorities and liaising with banks and financial service providers
- securing accounts and helping with password changes
- giving advice on protection
- working out if data back-ups are available
Our cyber specialists can also give you advice on how to protect yourself from any future attacks.
To see if you have access to it, check your cover in MyAccount.
