02/04/2024
Here's a concise list of **best practices** to help you avoid being hacked:
1. **Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**:
- Enable MFA for as many accounts as possible.
- Use a secondary piece of information (like a code generated by an app or sent via SMS) alongside your password.
- Turn on MFA for accounts holding personal information (e.g., messaging apps, social media, and email accounts)¹.
2. **Get a Password Manager**:
- Avoid using weak passwords like "password" or "12345."
- Ensure your passwords are strong, unique, and not reused across multiple websites.
- Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords¹.
3. **Keep Software and Systems Updated**:
- Regularly update your operating system, applications, and security software.
- Patches and updates often fix vulnerabilities that hackers exploit².
4. **Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks and VPNs**:
- Avoid public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities.
- If necessary, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection².
5. **Be Cautious of Phishing Attacks and Suspicious Links**:
- Verify the legitimacy of emails, messages, and links before clicking.
- Don't share personal information or credentials via email or unknown websites².
6. **Regularly Back Up Your Data and Use Encryption**:
- Back up important files to prevent data loss due to hacking or other issues.
- Encrypt sensitive data to protect it from unauthorized access².
Remember, your vigilance and proactive measures play a crucial role in safeguarding your online security. Stay informed and stay safe! 🛡️
Source: Conversation with Bing, 4/2/2024
(1) 6 Things You Need to Do to Prevent Getting Hacked | WIRED. https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-prevent-getting-hacked/.
(2) How to Prevent Hacking: 5 Effective Strategies to Prevent Hacking .... https://www.businesstechweekly.com/cybersecurity/data-security/how-to-prevent-hacking/.
(3) 10 Best Practices to Prevent Being Hacked. https://blog.consolidated-it.com/10-best-practices-to-prevent-being-hacked.
(4) 33 tips on how to not get hacked - Save the Student. https://www.savethestudent.org/extra-guides/32-ways-avoid-cyber-hacked.html.
(5) How to Prevent Hacking: 15 Proven Tricks to Avoid Hacking. https://sectigostore.com/blog/how-to-prevent-hacking-15-proven-tricks-to-avoid-hacking/.
