How to Improve Cybersecurity: 6 Bad Habits to Break Right Now

How to Improve Cybersecurity: 6 Bad Habits to Break Today

Cybersecurity is more important than ever. From weak passwords to outdated software, daily habits can put you and your business at risk. Breaking these habits is key to being safer online and protecting your data. Here are 6 common cybersecurity mistakes and how to fix them.

1. Reusing or Creating Weak Passwords

Using weak or repeated passwords makes it easy for hackers to get into your accounts. If one account is breached, others will follow.

How to break it:

• Use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords.
• Avoid using the same password across multiple sites and platforms. 
• Change passwords regularly to reduce risk.

2. Clicking Suspicious Links or Attachments

Phishing scams come as emails or texts with fake links or attachments. Clicking them can install malware or steal your info.

How to break it:

• Don’t click links or download attachments from unknown sources.
• Use antivirus tools and spam filters to catch threats early.
• When in doubt, verify the sender before acting.

3. Ignoring Software Updates

Outdated software has security flaws that hackers exploit. Skipping updates leaves your system exposed.

How to break it:

• Turn on automatic updates for your OS and apps.
• Make it a habit to check for updates weekly.
• Prioritize updates marked as “security patches.”

4. Using Public Wi-Fi Without Protection

Free Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s not always safe. Hackers can easily snoop on data sent through unsecured networks.”

How to break it:

• When using public Wi-Fi, use a VPN.
• Avoid logging into accounts with sensitive information, like your bank, when using public Wi-Fi.
• Stick to secure sites (HTTPS) whenever possible.

5. Falling for Phishing Scams

Phishing scams trick you into giving up your info by pretending to be trustworthy sources. These attacks are getting smarter.

How to break it:

• Be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for your personal data.
• Enable DMARC and other email security protocols.
• Educate yourself and your team on phishing red flags.

6. Not Backing Up Your Data

Losing data to malware, crashes, or accidental deletion can be devastating, especially without a backup plan.

How to break it:

• Schedule regular backups to cloud storage or external drives.* Use automation to make it easy.
• Test backups occasionally.

Conclusion

Breaking bad habits is how you improve cybersecurity. Whether it’s reusing passwords or ignoring updates, small changes add up. Need help securing your business? Let our team take a look and schedule a security check today.