Why Our Behaviour Matters in Cyber Security

Our Actions can Pave The Way For a Cyber Attack

Securing our digital lives often conjures images of complex firewalls and impenetrable encryption, yet a critical line of defence remains surprisingly analogue: human behaviour. Our actions, however well-intentioned, can inadvertently pave the way for cyberattacks, a reality with significant implications for individuals and organisations alike.

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Phishing Scams

The tantalising subject line promising “unbelievable revelations” or the flashing alert warning of “account suspension” – these are hallmarks of phishing scams, exploiting our inherent curiosity and fear. A hasty click, and malware finds its way onto our devices, credentials compromised, and our digital world thrown into disarray. What were once considered tactics aimed at the technologically naïve now ensnare even seasoned professionals, highlighting the evolving sophistication of these attacks.

Reporting Phishing Scams: If you have received an email which you’re not quite sure about, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk

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Weak Passwords

The human fondness for convenience often translates into weak password practices. Reusing familiar combinations across platforms or opting for easily guessable sequences like “123456” is akin to leaving our digital doors open. These readily cracked codes grant cybercriminals unfettered access to our personal data, financial accounts, and professional platforms, the consequences ranging from identity theft to reputational damage.

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Oversharing on Social Media

In the age of social media, sharing every facet of our lives has become commonplace. From vacation photos to work milestones, the digital breadcrumbs we leave behind paint a comprehensive picture of our habits, interests, and vulnerabilities. This readily available information becomes a treasure trove for cybercriminals, enabling them to craft targeted attacks, manipulate social engineering schemes, and even steal identities. The line between harmless online persona and unintentional vulnerability can be surprisingly thin.

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Lack of Awareness

Many people are unaware of the latest cyber threats and how to protect themselves. This lack of awareness makes them more vulnerable to attacks.

By understanding how our own behaviour can contribute to cyber threats, we can take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. By being more mindful of our online activity, choosing strong passwords, and being aware of the latest scams, we can make the internet a safer place for everyone.

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Here are some additional tips for staying safe online

Use a strong password manager to create and store unique passwords for all your accounts.

Be cautious about clicking on links in emails, even if they appear to be from a trusted sender.

Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts whenever possible.

Install security software and keep it up to date.

Be wary of what you share online, especially on social media.

Stay informed, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest cyber threats and best practices for staying safe online.

Check out the NCSC’s response, reports and advisories on cyber security matters affecting the UK.

https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/keep-up-to-date/reports-advisories

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