
Security in the Digital World: Key Cybersecurity Tips for Protecting Data at Home.
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Nowadays, information can become extremely dangerous if it falls into the hands of outsiders. It is becoming more and more difficult to reliably protect personal data.
Along with the advantages of online services, stores, applications and various online systems, the need for more reliable protection of information not only for personal needs, but also for business needs in general is growing.
We can no longer imagine life without the Internet, social networks, electronic payments and digital documents. But along with these unconditional conveniences comes the risk of various cyber attacks. In order to avoid data theft and significant financial losses for your business, it is important to know how to protect yourself from such threats.
Cyber security is a set of measures, technologies and methods aimed at protecting computer systems, networks, programs and data in cyberspace from unauthorized access, modification, destruction or use for criminal purposes.
It includes protection against digital attacks, which are often aimed at gaining access to confidential and personal information, changing or completely destroying data, demanding personal funds from users or disrupting the stability of business operations.
Cyber security ensures the confidentiality, integrity and availability of digital data throughout its lifecycle. It covers everything from personal information to complex government systems. It is the ability to prevent mass cyber attacks, including taking proactive measures to predict and counter intrusions, protecting personal information and devices from viruses and other cyber threats. All cyber defense strategies and tactics share the common goal of preventing, stopping, and responding to any cyber threat while keeping the entire digital environment secure.
The main types of cyber attacks:
- Phishing is a fraudulent attempt to obtain confidential information, such as passwords or financial data, by tricking users. This usually happens through fake emails or websites that look legitimate, or as an offer to download a malicious file that installs viruses on your computer or phone. Also, they can even replace the URL.
For example: Receiving an email that looks like a message from your bank asking you to update your account information.
- Malicious software (Malware). These are programs or codes designed to harm computer systems, networks, or devices. Includes various viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, etc. They are usually capable of spreading and infecting additional computer systems.
For example: A virus that can spread through email attachments and infect your computer.
- Denial of Service (DoS/DDoS) attacks are a type of attack that overloads a system or network to the point that it becomes unavailable to users. DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks are carried out from many computers at the same time. During a DDoS attack, users cannot perform normal and necessary tasks, such as accessing email, websites, Internet accounts, or other resources. Although most DDoS attacks do not result in data loss, they cost organizations time, money and other resources to restore critical business operations.
For example: A large number of requests to the website, which leads to its “freezing” or unavailability.
- Hacking – Unauthorized access to computer systems or networks for the purpose of stealing, changing or destroying data.
For example: Hacking accounts in social networks or bank accounts.
- Ransomware is malicious software that blocks access to a system or data until a ransom is paid.
For example: A program that encrypts files on your computer and demands a ransom to unlock it.
- Social engineering: manipulation of people to obtain confidential information or access to a system. Includes various methods of deception and persuasion.
For example: A call from a fraudster posing as a technical support worker and asking for a password.
- Exploits are the use of vulnerabilities in software or systems to gain unauthorized access or cause harm.
For example: Exploiting a vulnerability in the operating system to gain full administrative access.
- Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks are the interception and possible modification of communications between two parties without their knowledge.
For example: Interception of data during the transfer of information between the user and the bank through an unsecured Wi-Fi connection.
- SQL injection (SQL Injection) – the introduction of malicious SQL code into database queries for the purpose of accessing, changing or deleting data.
For example: Entering malicious SQL commands into an input field on a website that allows access to a database.
- Password Attacks – attempts to break or guess passwords to access systems or accounts.
For example: Using brute force attacks, when automated programs try all possible password combinations.

What to do to protect yourself from so many different cyber threats? Of course, it depends on whether you need protection of personal data of the user or protection of data for a business network or a global company in general.
Below are general tips and fundamental data protection rules. Yes, they may seem obvious, but unfortunately, that is why many people forget or ignore them.
Install reliable antivirus software A reliable antivirus program is a must to protect against viruses and malware. It also scans and filters potentially dangerous downloads and emails. Update your antivirus software regularly for maximum protection.
Use complex passwords Create unique and complex passwords of at least 12 characters for each of your online accounts. Use a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters. Use password managers to store and manage all your passwords.
Protect your network with a firewall A firewall protects both hardware and software by blocking or preventing viruses from entering your network. It helps protect both inbound and outbound network traffic, preventing hacker attacks.

Install encryption software If you work with data that belongs to credit cards, bank accounts, or social security numbers on a daily basis, you need to have an encryption program. Encryption turns the data on the computer into unreadable codes, ensuring its security even in case of theft.
Ignore suspicious emails and messages Do not open or reply to suspicious emails, click on suspicious links or download attachments. This will help avoid phishing attacks and identity theft. Change your email passwords regularly.
Back up your data frequently Back up all your important data on an external hard drive or in the cloud. Set up automatic backups to keep your information safe.
Protect your Wi-Fi network Use WPA2 or WPA3 to secure your Wi-Fi network. Set a strong password and change it regularly. Hide the name of your wireless access point or router to prevent hackers from hacking your network. Use a VPN to connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
Update your software to the latest versions Regularly update operating systems, programs, and applications to address vulnerabilities. Install updates as soon as possible to prevent cyber attacks.
Use two-factor authentication Two-factor authentication provides an additional level of security by requiring you to enter an additional code in addition to your password. This makes it difficult for unauthorized access to your accounts, even if your password is stolen.
Be careful with links and attachments Do not open links or attachments that look suspicious or come from unfamiliar sources. This will help prevent malware infection and identity theft.
Safety in social networks Be careful with the information you post on social networks. Avoid posting personal information such as your home address, phone number, or financial information. Adjust the privacy of your profile to limit access to your personal information only to people you trust.
Nowadays, cyber security is becoming increasingly important to protect personal and corporate information. As technology advances, so do the number of cyber threats, making it critical to follow security guidelines. Ensuring cyber security is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires attention and effort. By protecting yourself, your children, and your personal business from cyber threats, you create a safer and more secure digital environment for everyone.