In the wake of high rising cyber-attacks, everyone is equally susceptible to risks. Cyber security is a major threat but people often lack the knowledge of ways & methodologies to protect themselves from hackers. This has muddled up their idea about internet security & cyber-attacks. Let’s debunk certain myths regarding cyber security and the actual facts behind them.

  • Myth – Only Big Corporations Are Targeted, My Personal Computer Faces Absolutely No Risk.
    Fact – It is a complete myth that cyber criminals would not be interested in hacking your personal information. They usually keep an eye and watch out for people who seem to be an easy prey. Reason being, companies do take certain security measures and also have dedicated IT teams to keep a check over cyber security which makes it difficult for hackers to infiltrate into the network. However, cyber criminals do not have to make much efforts to break into the network and steal private as well as confidential information stored on an individual’s personal computer. So it is important to keep your files and data safe on your devices by using a variety of security measures. Set difficult passwords and keep changing them from time to time. Also make sure that you unplug your webcam as well as switch off the broadband connection when not in use.
  • Myth – If A Computer Is Not Connected To Internet Then There Are No Chances Of Getting Attacked By A Virus.
    Fact – This is far from truth. Virus can be injected into the PC while software update or through USB drives which might have been exposed to malware. This poses a serious cyber security threat.
  • Myth – I Have A Strong And Complex Password, So My Information Is Safe.
    Fact – Sometimes people set passwords which may seem difficult to them but in reality they aren’t as   complex and can be easily hacked by cyber criminals. So make sure that you set a password which has more than 15 characters and is formed by using a combination of alphabets (both upper & lower case), numbers as well as symbols to increase the difficulty level. Also nowadays, most devices allow use of biometrics i.e., fingerprints, face scan etc. to access confidential documents as they add a layer of security.
  • Myth – There Is No Risk As I Have Installed An Anti-Virus Software.
    Fact – An anti-virus software only protects you from virus. However, you may be exposed to a variety of other cyber security threats. So it is important to update the anti-virus software and also you will need firewalls to protect your personal information from being hacked.

Cyber criminals often resort to identity thefts or sell your personal information further in the dark market to be used against you. So it is better to stay safe than repenting it later. Therefore, gather complete information about internet security and take all necessary steps to protect yourself from a cyber-attack.

To know more about IT Security, call Centex Technologies at (254) 213-4740.