Practices and actions that help maintain the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of digital information.
Description
Cyber hygiene refers to a set of best practices and routine procedures aimed at protecting and maintaining the security of computer systems and networks. Just like personal hygiene helps keep individuals healthy, cyber hygiene helps organizations and individuals safeguard their digital assets against cyber threats. Good cyber hygiene involves regularly updating software, using strong and unique passwords, and backing up data. It also includes being aware of phishing attacks and using security tools like firewalls and antivirus software. By adopting these practices, users can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches, malware infections, and other cyber incidents. For instance, organizations like Target and Equifax have faced severe repercussions due to lapses in cyber hygiene. Therefore, implementing a robust cyber hygiene strategy is crucial for both individuals and businesses to protect sensitive information and maintain trust in a digital world.
Examples
- Regularly updating operating systems and software to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Using two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to accounts.
Additional Information
- Educating employees about recognizing phishing emails can reduce the risk of cyber attacks.
- Conducting regular security audits to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities in systems.