4 Best Bets To Stay Cyber Safe

Protecting yourself online doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. By adopting a few smart habits, you can greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to cybercrime. While no one is completely “hackproof,” you can be far more resilient by following these best bets.

At The Heart Of Cybersecurity Are Four Essential Behaviors, Known As The Core 4

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Your password is the first defense between you and cybercriminals.

• Aim for at least 16 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Never reuse passwords — small tweaks don’t count as unique.
• Use a password manager to securely store and generate strong logins.

Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Think of MFA as adding a second lock to your digital door. Beyond a password, it may require:

• A code sent to your phone.
• A fingerprint or FaceID scan.
• A physical security key.

Never share MFA codes — a legitimate company will never ask.

Keep Software Updated

Updates often fix security flaws criminals exploit.

• Turn on automatic updates when possible.
• Promptly update operating systems, browsers, apps, and antivirus tools.
• Remember: phones, tablets, and smartwatches are computers too.

Watch for Phishing Scams

Phishing is the most common online threat. Attackers send fake emails, texts, or messages to trick you into revealing information or clicking harmful links.

• Be skeptical of urgent or unexpected requests.
• Avoid suspicious links or attachments.
• Report phishing attempts to your provider, platform, or IT department.
• When in doubt, ask someone you trust to double-check.