Digital Spring Cleaning Can Protect Against Fraud | Park Rapids Minnesota News, Weather, Sports

As the weather gets warmer, people will be inspired to clean and tidy up. One area that many people overlook is their digital devices. We use our phones to shop, surf social media, bank, and work.

The National Cyber​​Security Alliance (NCSA) and Better Business Bureau (BBB) ​​are reminding everyone that if you clean up physical clutter, digital data clutter can also live on your electronic devices.

When you have more time in your day, it might be a good time for a digital makeover. Take a few simple, proactive steps to protect against potentially disruptive issues that can wreak havoc by compromising your data, such as: B. identity theft, loss of money or credit card fraud.

As many companies and their employees continue to work from home, a focus on cybersecurity is essential. NCSA and BBB encourage people to check their smartphones, laptops, and tablets and take a few minutes to read these tips for protecting your confidential information.

• Lock your connection: Make sure usernames or slogans are long, unique and securely stored for each account. Enable two-factor authentication for all accounts they offer.
• Update your system and software: Using the latest software, web browsers and operating systems is one of the easiest and quickest ways to protect your sensitive data.
• Backup: Protect your personal and business information by making electronic copies of your most important files. Follow the 3-2-1 rule: three backups, two different media types, and one offline in a different location.
• Clean up your online presence: When was the last time you used all the apps on your device? Do you know the settings of all your social media accounts? Check and make sure you know who has admin access. Keep all your passwords secret.
• Be careful what you share - social media quizzes are fun and keeping in touch is a must these days. However, be careful when sharing questions on social media that may reveal too much information about you, your location, or your family.

Small business owners also need to establish, update, and communicate policies and procedures on issues such as record retention. It is also imperative to have a cyber security strategy used by all employees. Visit BBB.org/bizhq for tips on avoiding online scams when working from home.
By taking these precautions, you can have peace of mind not just this spring, but all year long.

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