The Dangers Of Neglecting Your Online Privacy

Today companies and individuals are the most exposed to cyberattacks and data breaches. In this article, we are going to talk about the top risks they face. Studies tell us that financial data is the target of many cyberattacks. So, what are the risks that could expose companies and individual users to data loss?

Risks That Can Cause Data Loss

The majority of financial data security breaches are caused by one or more of these common factors:

1. Weak Or Stolen Passwords

Your information systems are no stronger than your passwords, especially the weakest ones. Thus, poor identification protocols offer cybercriminals a real gateway. Weak passwords such as “Password1” are practically useless. Even more complex passwords can be cracked by sophisticated programs capable of performing millions of combinations automatically.

2. Malicious Users

Users with access to sensitive information may be tempted to abuse their privileges, whether their motivation is for profit or for harm. An effective access control policy can thwart this type of threat. Regularly reviewing your authentication and authorization protocols to limit user access helps minimize financial data security risks.

3. User-Related Errors

A data security breach is not necessarily linked to the intentional act of a person. Sometimes all it takes is inadvertently sending an email to the wrong people, attaching an inappropriate document, or sending confidential information to an open-access printer, making it vulnerable to being seen or recovered. Internal awareness is essential in this regard. Sharing best practices, from printer data security tips to tips for spotting phishing emails, will help users stay alert to risk.

4. Vulnerable Software

Hackers are always on the lookout for flaws in apps, and software vendors are constantly working to fix them through security updates. Companies should apply these updates as soon as possible, as criminals will turn to less responsive ones, which de facto expose themselves to cyberattacks.

5. Malware

Malware exploits loopholes in your system and infiltrates it to disrupt your business or steal your data. Prevention requires a proactive strategy that teaches users to avoid all suspicious links, emails, and websites and makes them think twice before downloading software. At the enterprise level, invest in anti-malware software, make sure all updates and security patches are installed, and keep your firewall properly configured and enabled at all times.

Assess The Costs Associated With Data Loss

With potential attacks likely to be carried out on multiple fronts, hoping to get through is not an option. With the entry into force of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and CCPA in 2018, companies or individuals that fail to manage data security risks can face serious consequences, whether in the form of financial sanctions but also in terms of reputation.

Despite the entry into force of the GDPR, we see that data breaches happen more often every year and these cyberattacks can come from unexpected places.

You might have questions about maintaining your privacy online. Cybercrime exists and the looting of your online privacy and personal data is a reality, for unhealthy actors wishing to manipulate it without your knowledge.

To wonder about this subject is to show awareness. It is the desire to have your freedom without subjecting it to the real dangers of the actions you perform online.

These Things You Do Online Can Put Your Privacy At Risk

1. Your Password On Social Networks Must Not Be Weak

When you go to social media, identity thieves can collect personal information about you. It is true that you benefit from advanced security settings on these sites, only private and social information is required to use them.

The most common way for an identity thief to commit a crime is to hack into your email by clicking on “forgot password”. Therefore, once the connection is established, the thief can have access to all the information about you on social networks.

2. Click On A Malicious Link

It is sometimes tempting to click on the link of a source that we like or even don’t know. However, you need to stay alert because cyber criminals like to inject viruses to steal your identity or block your bank account information.

3. Click On The “Cookies” Of The Websites

Each time you visit a website, companies place invisible markers called “cookies”. These track your activity as you move from one site to another. So, when you subscribe to any site or app or download games, those media contains personal information about you.

4. Inform The World Of Your Future Travels

That’s it, your suitcases are ready! And in the heat of the rush, you take the opportunity to notify all of your networks. Of course, you mean no harm, but did you know that an ordinary thief needs less than 60 seconds to break into your home? Burglars are fond of your updates and are on the lookout for the photos and updates you share online.

5. Add Your Work Colleagues As Friends

It may seem trivial, but some of your colleagues may report to your hierarchy publications blaming you for a violation of your company policy. Despite the proximity to your colleagues, it may be worth reconsidering the idea of ​​adding professional contacts as friends by leaving them the door open to your private life. In such cases, you should use Leadar. By using this website, you can search for their contact details such as a home address, social media accounts, and much more to see if they really work with you and if connecting with them is worth it.

6. Protect Your Location Information

As you may have noticed, mobile apps, websites, and social media are bombarding with location information requests. If access is granted, your messages and activities will mark your location. Think about the context and ask yourself if you want to share your location information.

7. Take Your Social Media Privacy Settings More Seriously

It is essential to draw your attention to the fact that not knowing your privacy settings exposes you to danger: not knowing how your social networks work may lead to harm. Once you are sure of your actions, you can start using your social media again.

Take note of all of these actions you usually do while using social media accounts and the internet and you can easily protect your online privacy.