No matter your career or position, it is everyone's job to practice good cybersecurity. Organizations and homes cannot be secure without each and every person doing their part. Online safety and security are a responsibility we all share.

Create long and unique passphrases for all accounts and use multifactor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. MFA will fortify your online accounts by enabling the strongest authentication tools available, such as biometrics or a unique one-time code sent to your phone or mobile device. Use password managers to generate and remember different, complex passwords for each of your accounts.

If you receive an enticing offer via email or text, don't be so quick to click on the link. Instead, go directly to the company's website to verify it is legitimate. If you are unsure who an email is from, even if the details appear accurate, or if the email looks "phishy," do not respond, do not click on any links, and do not open any attachments found in that email as they may be infected with malware.

When in Doubt - Throw It Out 

Public wireless networks and hotspots are not secure, which means that anyone could potentially see what you are doing on your laptop, smartphone, or tablet while you are connected to them. Limit what you do on public WiFi, and avoid accessing key accounts like email and bank accounts. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) or a personal / mobile hotspot if you need a more secure connection.

Cybercriminals love it when you overshare on social media – they can learn all about you! Make it harder for them by avoiding posting real names, places you frequent, and home, school, or work locations. Think before posting about yourself and others online. Consider what a post reveals, who might see it, and how it might affect you or others. Consider creating an alternate persona that you use for online profiles to limit how much of your own personal information you share.

Most connected appliances, toys, and devices are supported by a mobile application. Your mobile device could be filled with suspicious apps running in the background, or using default permissions you never realized you approved-gathering your personal information without your knowledge, while also putting your identity and privacy at risk. Check your app permissions and delete what you don't need or no longer use.