As we spend more of our lives shopping online, gaming, or browsing social media, it’s becoming increasingly important to take a proactive role in keeping yourself safe online. Avoiding shady looking websites, not interacting with emails from senders you don’t recognize, and using strong passwords are just a few steps you can take to protect yourself.
Strong and Unique Passwords
Large-scale data breaches are occurring at an ever-increasing pace. 2021 saw a 31% increase in cyber attacks over 2020. If you use the same password across multiple sites and services, one companies’ data breach can instantly make your other accounts vulnerable. Do not reuse passwords. Use a password manager like Dashlane!
Phishing
Phishing is exactly what it sounds like! A malicious person casts out his line and hopes for a bite. The bait could be an email asking for your password, or it could be a random text from a number you don’t recognize, or a popup on your phone telling you your battery is about to explode. Don’t take the bait!
Cyber Crime Statistics
- 90% of cyber attacks begin as a spear phishing emails.
- The average cost of a data breach is around $200,000.
- The US Government spends $15 billion per year on cybersecurity.
The above graph depicts the explosive growth of cyber crime since 2005.
The tools and methods being used by malicious actors are improving all the time. The graph shows a decline in overall data compromises, but I would argue that’s due to more targeted and precise attacks instead of the “wide net” approach used by criminals originally.
Spread The Word
It’s important to protect yourself from cybersecurity threats, but it’s equally important to help other people protect themselves. Those that aren’t technically savvy enough to spot a phishing email or know not to click attachments from senders they don’t recognize are at the highest risk. Educate your family and friends about the risks of being online!
Quotes from Sean Michael Kerner about Cyber Crime and the impact it has had on businesses and individuals.
“Phishing, the most common threat vector, is involved in 36% of data breaches, according to Verizon’s “2021 Data Breach Investigations” report. Phishing is often delivered via email, where a user is somehow tricked into clicking a link or providing information that can lead to exploitation.”“The cost of cybercrime is predicted to hit $10.5 trillion by 2025, according to the latest version of the Cisco/Cybersecurity Ventures “2022 Cybersecurity Almanac.“”
