Recently, I had the opportunity to attend KB4CON here in Orlando. During the event, we had a special opportunity to hear from world-famous hacker, Kevin Mitnick. Kevin is a computer security consultant and world-famous hacker after a high-profile arrest in 1995 for various computer and communications related crimes. He currently runs the security firm Mitnick Security Consulting and is Chief Hacking Officer of the KnowBe4, a security awareness training company. We live in a world that is driven by technology and our devices. Unfortunately, it’s not always hackers that cause the most damage or compromise the security of our data. It’s typically the unknowing employee or family member. I would consider myself quite proficient when technology is involved, yet even I was amazed at what I learned. Not to mention, we all get lazy from time to time. Hopefully these tips will help you secure your data.
Get a Master Password Keeper
Suggestions: Lastpass, Dashlane, Keeper
Password keepers like those mentioned above can really help secure your data and let you only have to remember 1 master password.
Remove Passwords
Don’t keep them saved in your preferred browsers.
Kevin stated at KB4CON that should a hacker gain access to your computer, the first place they will typically go will be your saved passwords in your browser. Now they have everything! That won’t secure your data.
Don’t Share or Borrow
Keep your charging cords to yourself and do not borrow them from people.
I know, I know, this is a basic we all learned growing up. However, I learned that borrowing a simple charging cord from a stranger could give them access to your entire computer or phone. Not all are hackers, folks. Secure your data.
Free Isn’t Always Good
Hello free USB storage thumb drives!!! I’m looking at you.
We all love them, but put it back. Put it back right now! Do you know what’s on a freebie USB sent in the mail, conference, etc? Me neither, but that’s the point. It could be nothing or it could be something terrible. You think, “let’s take a chance anyways.” Next thing you know, you are calling your trusty IT friend. We all know how awkward that call is when you have to explain how your irresistible free deal just cost you time, money and headaches. RESIST FREE on this one and save yourself the agony of damage control and having to re-secure your data.
Be a Guardian of the Door Security Badges
Call I.T. Immediately. You just compromised your place of work.
Did you lose your security badge? Did you let someone borrow your Badge? What we think is harmless can be harmful and waste I.T. department time re-programming to regain a secure work environment. The badges are also ways to track who is in the building. If you loan out your card or lose it, you could be placing yourself in a position of being accused of something you didn’t. Not to mention, if you save your company money on replacing security, it leaves room for things like employee perks.
I hope you enjoyed these tips, and I look froward to hearing your feedback and experiences. We posted an info-graphic on all of our social media pages, so make sure you check it out. Feel free to print and keep it posted around your office. Until next time, keep your information safe!
Joy Fullerton has always forged her own path. She has a degree in Psychology and worked as a traveling Certified Respiratory Therapist for 9 years. Eventually, she settled in Orlando, and spent the last 12 years involved in all facets of the staffing industry. She currently resides in Orlando with her husband Seth and their family of rescue animals currently at 2 dogs and 4 cats. She is the Director of Operations for Indigo Alliance and it’s partners.