Protect Your Devices From Hackers: 9 Cyber ​​Security Best Practices (2024)

You don’t need a prophet to reveal to you the danger lurking in the digital landscape. Day in and day out, cybercriminals are becoming sophisticated with their exploitative antics to match the advancement of technological space. As you digitize your personal, business and corporate affairs, your gadgets are your gateways to the virtual world. With a single click and touch you connect to the vast amount of information. However, this puts your sensitive data on the line, and a single crack in the wall of your connection can put your data in the hands of cybercriminals.

A breach can cause you to lose your valuable treasures to hackers who allow them to access your financial applications and/or steal your customers’ sensitive information. To protect your devices, such as mobile phones and laptops, from the clutches of hackers, you must adopt cybersecurity best practices that protect your devices and strengthen your digital reputation.

Cybersecurity Ventures revealed that cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. The US National Security Agency also revealed that they processed and/or blocked 10 billion malicious domains in 2023, including ransomware activity and state malware, spearphishing, and botnets. You don’t want to be a victim. Let me take you through security measures that are widely recognized as cyber security best practices for individuals and businesses:

1. Use strong, unique passwords

Avoid using common passwords like “1111” or your name “Ali.” Instead, create a complex password that combines uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. For example, use a password like “A@l@i11₦11”. Also, make sure you use different passwords for each of your devices and accounts.

2. Enable 2FA or MFA

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds extra layers of security to your devices or accounts by requiring additional verification before granting access to the device or account. This verification may include entering a code sent to your phone or providing biometric information such as fingerprint or face ID. So you must provide this information to gain access after entering your password. This step has been adopted by many devices and accounts to help you reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your equipment. Make sure you activate them on your accounts and devices.

3. Update your Gadget apps regularly

Often, your devices’ operating systems and applications request that you update them. Following this instruction is essential for your security, as updates almost always include security fixes that fix bugs and vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.

4. Be careful with public WiFi

Public WiFi is mostly not beneficial as the harm outweighs the favor offered as these connections can be easily intercepted. For example, accessing sensitive information or using banking applications when connected to public Wi-Fi networks can expose your data to the network source. In a survey by Forbes, 43% of respondents said their online security was compromised while using public Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi anyway, enable a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection for extra security.

5. Be suspicious of emails and links

Phishing is real. This is a popular social engineering technique used by hackers to obtain sensitive data from users. Most phishing techniques also arrive via email, backed by a sense of urgency. So, before hitting links or downloading attachments in your email or SMS box, make sure they come from known and credible sources. If you receive a call, text or email claiming to be from your bank asking for your personal and financial information, verify its legitimacy by contacting your bank directly.

6. Use antivirus

Installing antivirus or anti-malware is critical, especially for your laptops and desktops, for both device and internet security. Antivirus helps you detect and remove malicious bugs and software from your devices. While antivirus software automatically monitors your system, regularly scan your system manually for any possible malware or viruses. Also, be sure to update the software to stay protected against the latest threats. It is unwise to continue using a 2022 antivirus in 2024. Furthermore, activate your operating system’s protection mechanism, for example Microsoft has a Defender that protects your equipment offline and whenever you go online.

7. Secure your home network

Change the password of your WiFi router or Hotspot regularly, and enable encryption protocols of your phone. Some devices use the WPA2 or WPA3 protocols to strengthen your network security, and 2.4 GHz band or 5.0 GHz band to limit the network coverage, protecting your equipment from unauthorized access. Some devices also allow you to select the number of users to enable connection to your WiFi. Make sure you enable these features. When not in use, turn off your WiFi and Bluetooth, or set them to turn off automatically when inactive.

8. Monitor your social media privacy settings

Review and adjust your social media privacy settings to ensure you are not inadvertently sharing personal information with the public that could be exploited by potential hackers. Be mindful of the information you share online, and make sure you only grant reasonable access to trusted mobile apps.

9. Back up your data regularly

Backing up your data helps you keep important files even if your equipment is compromised. Use cloud storage or external hard drives for backups. Cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox are popular and reliable, and can be set to automatically back up important files and documents. In addition to cloud drives, schedule a feasible backup for your devices to external hard drives.

Before you go

Cyber ​​security is a global concern, and it has planted its root everywhere. In June 2023, Kaspersky revealed that Nigeria recorded the second highest number of cyber attacks in Africa. Two years earlier, in June 2021, they pointed out that Nigeria recorded 16.7 million cases of cyber attacks. To support this, the Nigerian Communications Commission reports that Nigeria loses $500 million annually to cybercrime. So be intentional about protecting your personal and business treasures.

In the end. . .

Always be aware of cyber threats and common scam techniques used by cybercriminals. Stay vigilant and prioritize the security of your data and devices. Make sure you empower yourself with these best practices, as they will reduce the risk of your equipment falling into the hands of cybercriminals. This enables you to explore the cyber landscape with confidence and peace of mind.

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