Cyber crime is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. There are an average of 1.5 million attacks every year. In 2014 alone, 47% of adults had their personal information stolen or compromised. While cyber criminals primarily attack large corporations, any individual with information stored online could be at risk of a cyber attack. Individuals can also be victimized when large corporations experience a data breach. Deputy & Mizell, LLC is here to help you protect your personal information with these simple, no-nonsense reminders for protecting your personal information online.
Use Powerful Passwords And Update Them Frequently
Everyone wants a password that’s easy to remember, but simple passwords are at a greater risk for being hacked. Experts recommend using a password that is at least eight characters long and uses a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Update your passwords regularly, and avoid using the same password to access multiple accounts. If you have a password cheat sheet, make sure it is stored in a secure place.
Avoid Questionable Websites
Most people feel very uncomfortable when traveling through bad neighborhoods. Because crime rates are higher in these areas, travelers know they are at an increased risk for being the victim of a crime and are usually in a hurry to move on to a different location. The same should apply to the internet. Visiting certain websites (sites containing adult content, scams, and hacker websites) puts your computer at an increased risk for contracting a virus or malware. Sticking with trusted, reputable websites will help keep your information safe.
Keep Highly Sensitive Information Away From The Internet
The unfortunate truth is that any computer connected to the internet is (to some extent) at risk for being compromised). We recommend keeping highly sensitive information on flash drives or DVDs, away from the prying fingers of internet hackers. If you must keep sensitive information on your computer, be sure it is encrypted and password protected.
Always Access Financial Sites Directly
One common method hackers use to steal people’s personal information is to pose as sites that the individuals know and trust. Emails may arrive in their inboxes that appear to have come from their bank or credit card company. Typically, these emails request account numbers, social security numbers, or other private information under the guise of confirming the account. If you receive one of these emails, never click on the link provided in the email. Instead, open a new web browser and travel directly to the bank or credit card company’s website. If action truly is needed with your account, you will be able to access it from there just as easily.
Keep All Devices Password Protected
Life is unpredictable, and it’s possible that your phone, computer, tablet, or other device could be stolen at some point. For this reason, it is essential that you keep all of your devices locked with a password and that you sign out of all online accounts directly, rather than waiting for your device to be logged off due to inactivity. If your devise is stolen, these extra measures will help prevent the thieves from accessing your private information.
Defending Your Rights? Our Attorneys Are Here For You.
Don’t face the consequences of cyber crime alone. If your personal information has been compromised and you need to protect your rights, contact one of our attorneys in Mid-Missouri for representation. We would be honored to assist in any way we can.
Contact Deputy & Mizell, LLC
Representing Clients Across the Lake of the Ozarks Region
Lebanon: 417-532-2191
Camdenton: 573-346-9990
Tuscumbia: 573-369-0001
We are the best Lake of the Ozarks Lawyers!
www.DeputyandMizell.com
Follow us on all of our social media channels!