October is Cyber Security
Awareness Month. Cyber Security is important for our national security, our
business security and for each of us for our personal security. Over the past
few years there has been more publicity about online fraud, scams, and identity
theft. Keeping your computer devices (PC, laptop, tablet, smartphone, IoT
device) secure should be included in your plan to protect yourself from scams
and fraud. Hackers can enter your computer(s) through a variety of means to
gather your sensitive personal information.
An example is the KRACK
vulnerability that was recently announced. This is a vulnerability that was
discovered in the basic WPA2 security protocol that is used in modern modems
and routers. The vulnerability could allow a middle man attack when the
attacker is within range of a Wi-Fi connection. That could be someone at a
coffee shop, in a nearby office or apartment unit, or in close proximity of
your house. This article from Leo Notenboom should help you decide if you need
to take action and if so, what action to take:
Ask Leo:
The KRACK vulnerability points
out how we have become dependent on Wi-Fi access to the internet. We use Wi-Fi
in our homes, it’s easier to hook up than rewiring the whole house. We also use
Wi-Fi on the go when we are shopping, traveling, or hanging out with our
friends.
Many cyber security experts
discourage usage of open Wi-Fi when conducting online purchases or accessing
financial accounts. The Department of Homeland Security’s Stop. Think. Connect.
Campaign recommends that you take the following steps to protect your online
accounts:
·
Use two-factor authentication wherever possible.
In two-factor (or stronger) authentication, when you login to your account, the
organization holding your account sends you a code via text message or email
that you also enter in addition to your use ID and password. This extra step
helps assure the organization that you are really you.
·
Make strong complex passwords.
·
Use unique passwords for each of your accounts.
For more tips on how to protect
your information on computer devices go to,
Stop.Think.Connect:
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