Cyber Security Risk Management – Technica’s top 10 tips for cyber safety 

There are a few things we can all do to improve our cyber security. Share our top 10 tips for cyber safety with everyone in your organisation to avoid simple mistakes that could jeopardise your security.  

1. Email caution

Only open emails, attachments, or links if you know who sent them and were expecting them. Even if you know the sender, don’t open attachments or click links if you weren’t expecting the email. Following this simple rule would prevent 95% of potential IT security problems.

2.  Allow automatic device updates 

Make sure your devices, computers, tablets, and phones update themselves automatically. It’s vital that you let them install updates to your operating systems and restart when needed. Delaying security updates or not rebooting after updates significantly increases your risk. 

3.  Keep apps up to date

It’s critical that your apps are updated. Check for updates regularly, allow them to install and restart your device when required. Updating apps helps fix security issues and is just as important as updating your operating systems.

4.  Verify payment requests

Always confirm any payment requests or changes to payment details by talking directly to the person who sent the request. If you get an email, call the person using a known number, not one from the email. If someone calls you about payments or bank details, email them and ask them to confirm their request by replying; even if you recognise their voice, AI-generated voice and video calls are already being used to scam people into transferring money.  

5.   Public safety

Don’t leave your phone, laptop, or tablet alone, especially in public places like cafes or libraries. Don’t ask strangers to watch them; take them with you if you need to leave your seat, even for a minute. Even in a ‘safe’ space like the office, always lock the screen when you step away, even if it locks automatically.

6.   Protect your passwords

Don’t write down your passwords. If you have trouble remembering them, your password policy isn’t working for you. Modern password policies help you create hard-to-guess passwords that you can remember, so you don’t need to change them often. 

7.  Don’t share passwords

Don’t share your passwords with anyone. Nowadays, your PC password often allows access to your online files and numerous apps. No one, not even IT support or your coworkers, should ever ask for your password.

8.   Use Multi-Factor Authentication 

Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. It isn’t foolproof, but it makes it much harder for someone to hack into your account. Even if they know your username and password, it’s extremely unlikely they also have access to your smartphone or other authentication device.

9.   Use Password Manager software 

Instead of using the same passwords for different websites, which is a serious security issue if one site gets hacked, use Password Manager software. It remembers all your passwords securely. You can use the one in your web browser (Edge, Chrome, etc.) or other third-party tools like Dashlane or 1Password. This way, you don’t have to remember lots of passwords, and it helps keep your accounts safe.

10.   Backup data 

Back up your important files regularly. No matter how good your security is, you may still need to restore data. Select a service that offers frequent backups and easy restoration options for minimal downtime. Ensure you document the restoration process so your organisation can get your files back if needed, and remember to test it regularly to ensure it is as fast and reliable as you need.  

At Technica, we understand that mistakes will happen, so we design and implement security policies that both prevent those mistakes where possible and minimise their impact should they still occur. 

Get in touch to find out more.