How to protect your internet-connected devices

How is your digital hygiene? National Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a good time for a digital checkup as a preventative measure against cyberattacks and scams.

“With people spending more time at home on their computers and smartphones, hackers and scammers have increased opportunities to exploit users for criminal gain,” said Seville Sanford, Roanoke Electric Co-op’s coordinator of technical services. “Our homes, well-being, and the nation’s security are all impacted by the internet. We all have a part to play to make sure we’re safe with the data we transmit online.”

Below are some valuable tips on how to protect your internet-connected devices:

  • Make a long, unique passphrase.
  • Use 2-factor authentication or multi-factor authentication whenever offered.
  • Limit what you do on public Wi-Fi and avoid logging in to key accounts like emails and financial services.
  • Configure privacy and security settings for information sharing on news accounts and when downloading a new app.

For more information about cybersecurity, visit staysafeonline.org/cybersecurity-awareness-month/.