Be Cyber Wise This October: Top Tips to Secure Your Digital World

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, which aims to highlight the significance of online safety for all Australians. This year’s theme, ‘Be cyber wise - don’t compromise’ is an urgent call to action for everyone to review and improve their digital defences as well as remaining vigilant against the ever increasing threat of cybercrime. 

Recent Statics and Trends

The Australian Cyber Security Centre’s Annual Cyber Threat Report showcases a 13% increase in cybercrime in 2023, compared to this time last year. This means that on average, a cybercrime is reported once every 7 minutes, which is a concerning trend. These figures from the ATO show and emphasise the rapid growth of cyber security related incidences. 

We have 4 Simple Steps to Increase Your Protection Online

1. Regularly update your device’s software:
   It’s important to ensure that your devices kept up-to-date by regularly updating the operating system of the device, as well as any software packages that you have installed. Most software development companies release regular updates to their software packages. These updates patch vulnerabilities that have been identified, and help to fortify your security barriers. We recommend that you activate automatic updates for seamless and hassle-free protection. 
    
2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication:
   Multifactor Authentication (MFA), or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security measure that requires a minimum of two forms of authentication before granting access to an account. These forms of authentication include physical tokens, biometrics (such as fingerprints), an Authentication application (such as Google Authenticator), Email, and SMS.
    
3. Backup Your Files: 
   We recommend that you regularly back up your personal data and files to an external device or a cloud storage solution. In the event that something goes wrong, you’ll be able to avoid either losing your data, or a costly data recovery service. Popular cloud storage solutions include Google Drive & Microsoft’s OneDrive.
    
4. Use Passphrases and Password Managers:
   When creating passwords for your accounts, we recommend using passphrases consisting of four or more random words. Including the use of symbols, capital letters and numbers will offer enhanced protection when it comes to securing your accounts.
   Password Managers offer several benefits for both individuals and organisations. These software applications provide a large range of benefits, including enhanced security, convenience, cross-platform accessibility, and passwords are stored securely in an encrypted vault. 

With the ever-increasing rate of cyber related crime, there's never been a better time to become educated and safeguard your accounts. By adopting these measures, both individuals and businesses can reduce the threat of online exploitations and gain peace of mind knowing that your private data is safeguarded against cyber criminals. Be cyber wise - don’t compromise. 

References:
https://www.cyber.gov.au/about-us/news/Cyber-Security-Awareness-Month-2023
https://www.ato.gov.au/tax-and-super-professionals/for-tax-professionals/tax-professionals-newsroom/reduce-the-risk-of-a-cyber-security-event