Attacks on computer networks are “among the biggest threats to the UK”, Theresa May said ahead of the publication of a new National Security Strategy.
Cyber terrorism is a “new and growing” danger, the Home Secretary said.
What does this mean to those of us who use computers at home and work?
What should business owners do to safeguard their IT infrastructure?
Cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing criminal activities. It covers a huge range of illegal activity including financial scams, computer hacking, downloading pornographic images, virus attacks, stalking by e-mail and creating websites that promote racial hatred.
Caution is your best defence.
What your business can do: –
· Have a policy for computer use and make sure everybody understands its importance.
· Maintain your computers. Do not forget servers, networks and firewall.
· Implement extra safeguards which ensure that your policies are mandatory and monitored.
· Never keep personal or confidential information on portable devices (e.g. USB memory sticks or laptops) unless protected against unauthorised access.
· Always treat business information in the same way you would wish your details to be handled by your bank, government departments, etc.
· Only access your business on a secure connection (look for your browsers closed padlock symbol)· Secure your wireless network.
What you can do:-
· Keep your passwords private. Don’t tell anyone, not even your boss.
· Make passwords longer than eight characters, include a variety of letters, numbers, and symbols. Change it regularly.
· Keep your computer up to date; most programs include options which make this very easy.
· Only add applications you fully trust to your computer, Facebook, or your phone; some of them access your private information. Delete any applications you do not use.
What you can do on the internet:-
· Use the security and privacy controls offered by the sites you use and regularly monitor any activity.
· Never tell a stranger any personal details about you or your family. These include: your address, phone number, date of birth etc.
· Don’t add anyone you don’t know to your friend list, even if they say they know you. If you don’t know them, don’t add them.
· If you are writing a blog, be careful to not give away to many personal details about yourself.
Finally, if in doubt – ask
