Peoria Standard

The U.S. Government's Cyber Security & Infrastructure Security Agency (CSIS) has outlined measures individuals can take to protect their personal data amidst increasing cybercrime incidents. Data breaches have become common, affecting various sectors including healthcare, government, and automotive industries. Criminals are now exploiting this trend by sending fake breach notifications to steal information.

CSIS emphasizes that cybercriminals often target individuals who neglect basic security precautions. To counteract this, CSIS suggests implementing four key strategies:

1. **Recognize and Report Phishing**: Phishing attempts aim to trick individuals into revealing personal information through deceptive emails or messages. Recognizing signs such as urgent language or incorrect URLs is crucial. CSIS advises deleting suspicious messages without clicking on any links and reporting potential phishing attempts.

2. **Use Strong Passwords**: Creating long, random passwords is essential for safeguarding accounts with sensitive information. A password manager can help manage unique passwords for different accounts, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

3. **Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)**: MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification steps beyond just a password when logging into accounts. This method significantly enhances online safety even if passwords are compromised.

4. **Update Software Regularly**: Installing software updates promptly addresses security vulnerabilities. Enabling automatic updates ensures that devices remain protected against potential threats.

By adopting these practices, individuals can enhance their defense against cybercriminals seeking to exploit personal and financial information.