Whether you’re a Newb, a Wizard or even a Ninja, a cybercriminal can take all the fun out of gaming by luring you into downloading software or clicking a link that infects your computer and exposes your personal info. You can still enjoy gaming with players across the globe by following basic security practices like applying strong passwords, keeping your system current and using common sense (don’t click on weird sh*t).
Last month, the WannaCry ransomware epidemic spread globally, affecting thousands of victims worldwide by infecting their computers with ransomware. Hackers essentially took computer files hostage until victims paid to have those files unlocked. This month, SANS provides lessons learned from this massive malware attack.
Calling all parents, babysitters and those who watch over young children! The May edition of OUCH!, a monthly security newsletter from the cybersecurity experts at SANS Institute, is all about keeping children safe while using the internet.
When it comes to securing children online, there are both technological challenges and educational challenges:
Has the task of creating a new password every 180 days gotten challenging? Are you running out of ideas for secure passwords to protect your university identity? There is a way to create hard-to-crack passwords, and it’s easier than you might think.
Are you getting ready to travel for spring break? You’ve probably thought about measures for your own personal safety, but don’t forget the safety of your mobile devices! Be sure to pack the sunscreen for yourself and the encryption software for your smartphone.
Have you ever received a strange message from a “friend” on Facebook, asking you to share a password or join their new business venture? Maybe they asked some seemingly innocent questions, like your current address, first pet’s name, mother’s maiden name, father’s middle name… if this sounds familiar, you may have been a target of social engineering.
Is Santa bringing you a new smartphone, smartwatch or tablet this year? If so, make sure you know what to do with your old device before trading it in. There might be sensitive information on that ancient device you’d rather not share with the future owner or the retailer who recycles smartphones of Christmases past.
Do you store data in the cloud using services like Dropbox and iCloud? Do you know if your data is safe? Or could someone in Russia be laughing at your stored selfies? While these services allow you to access data from anywhere on any device, that convenience comes at a cost.
Did you know there are just a few basic steps you can take to keep your devices and information secure? All you need to remember is that you are the most powerful defense against hackers. Just know, with great power comes great responsibility.
You’ve likely sent a text to your mom that started as innocent—until autocorrect had some fun with your message. But have you ever sent an email to the wrong auto-completed address? Or written an email while angry and then accidentally replied to an entire group of coworkers? Including your boss?
In the September edition of OUCH!, a monthly security newsletter from the cybersecurity experts at SANS Institute, you can learn simple email etiquette, appropriate for all your personal and professional communications.
