Cybersecurity doesn’t rely solely on software or firewalls—it begins with everyday habits. Whether you’re an individual or a business, adopting the right security practices can drastically reduce the risk of hacking, data breaches, or identity theft. Here are the key habits to adopt to protect your data effectively.
1. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
A strong password is your first line of defense. It should be long, complex, and unique for every service you use. To avoid forgetting them or reusing the same ones, it’s best to use a password manager. These tools securely store all your credentials and generate strong passwords with a single click.
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts. Even if a password is compromised, an attacker won’t be able to log in without the second factor (SMS code, mobile app, security key, etc.). Enable MFA wherever it’s available—email, social networks, banking platforms…
3. Keep Your Software Up to Date
Software updates not only fix bugs, but more importantly, patch security vulnerabilities. Whether it’s your operating system, browser, apps, or antivirus, make sure to activate automatic updates to stay protected against the latest threats.
4. Back Up Your Data Regularly
In case of ransomware, hardware failure, or accidental deletion, having a recent backup can make all the difference. Perform regular backups to an external drive or a secure cloud service, and verify that they work. This allows for quick data recovery without relying on third parties.
5. Learn to Recognize Phishing
Phishing attempts are becoming increasingly convincing. Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages asking you to click a link or provide sensitive information. Always check the sender’s address, avoid clicking suspicious links, and when in doubt, contact the organization directly.
6. Secure Your Wi-Fi Connection
An unsecured Wi-Fi network is an open door for cyber intrusions. Change the default password on your router, enable WPA3 encryption if available, and avoid public networks that aren’t password-protected. For added protection, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when accessing the internet on shared networks.
7. Browse Safely
Always favor websites using HTTPS, which ensures encrypted communication. You can also install security-focused browser extensions (such as script blockers or adware filters) to reduce risks while browsing the web.
8. Embrace a Zero Trust Approach
The Zero Trust model is built on a simple principle: never trust by default, even within your network. Every request and every access attempt must be verified. This approach—widely adopted by organizations—relies on strong authentication, access segmentation, and continuous monitoring to limit the damage in case of intrusion.