How to Reduce Personal Data Exposures

We are all constantly generating digital data. Whether it’s through our online activities or the devices we use every day, there’s no escaping it. While this ever-growing pool of data can be beneficial in many ways, it also comes with risks. In order to minimize your chances of being compromised, it’s important to understand data risks and take steps to reduce your exposures. The Nowell Agency is here to discuss some of the most common ways people expose themselves to cyber risks and offer tips on how to avoid cybercrime.

Tips for Increasing Personal Cyber Security

You probably know by now that your personal data is a prized commodity. Increasingly, hackers and identity thieves are targeting individuals in hopes of getting their hands on sensitive information like social security numbers, passwords, and credit card numbers. Would you believe that the average person exposes themselves to 650 unique data exposures every year? That’s a lot of risk and it’s no wonder so many people are worried about their data privacy. While there’s no single way to completely protect yourself from data theft, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of data exposure. The Nowell Agency is here to outline some tips for keeping your data safe online.

• Install antivirus software: Choose the right antivirus software for all personal laptops or desktops and keep the software updated.
• Practice safe web browsing: Many cyber attacks arise from malicious websites that infect your network. Learn about proper web usage and only interact with secure websites.
• Create strong passwords: Using a strong password with special characters, changing passwords on a regular basis, and using unique passwords for each account, are all password management techniques that increase your personal data safety.
• Use multi-factor authentication: Many online sources now require you to confirm your identity through additional information or extra steps. This may mean that you’ll provide a phone number, enter a unique security code, or answer a special question to sign in.
• Understand phishing threats: Phishing is a way for cybercriminals to gather personal information. Phishers will often send an email or direct you to a fraudulent website and ask for personal or sensitive information. These emails and websites look legitimate and are used to get you to provide credit card numbers, account numbers, passwords, usernames, or other private information. Educate yourself on what to look for in phishing threats, stay up to date on commonly used scams, and do not ever give your information out unless you have verified the source.
• Back up data: Having backup files of all your personal data is an important form of protection in case your system does get compromised.

Best Cyber Insurance in Mississippi

Everyone is concerned about their data privacy, but most people don’t actually know how to protect data. These tips should get you well on your way to protecting against data breaches. Yet disaster does strike from time to time, and the last level of defense from hackers comes in the form of cyber insurance. Nowell Agency offers the top cyber security insurance in Mississippi, Alabama, Texas, and beyond. Click for a free cyber insurance quote or give our helpful agents a call today! Stay safe out there!