The first plants are sprouting from the ground, the birds are chirping and 60 percent of Germans are using the time for extensive spring cleaning (source: YouGov). Such a thorough tidying up is also worthwhile in the digital world of PCs, smartphones and tablets. Outdated software and operating systems and unpatched security vulnerabilities are two of the biggest cyber threats. Hackers can exploit every tiny vulnerability. But it's not just on the devices that everything should be kept up to date; it's also worth cleaning out the internet. Unused online accounts should be deleted and security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled. ESET shows how digital spring cleaning can be a complete success.
“Anyone who uses a modern security solution is very well protected against most threats such as phishing or malware. But in everyday digital life, users have to take action themselves from time to time, so every device, regardless of whether it is a PC, smartphone, tablet or notebook, should always be up to date. This means that updates for the operating system and installed apps must be installed promptly. This often works very easily with an automatic update function. This should always be active.”
Christian Lueg, IT security expert at ESET
Avoid weak points
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) registered around 20,000 security vulnerabilities in 2021. Any vulnerability in an operating system or software can allow hackers to break into a computer system. This makes it all the more important as a user to react promptly and install updates from the manufacturer immediately. This closes known vulnerabilities.
Security of access data
Every internet user has a variety of accounts for different online services such as email, forums, service providers or social media. Once a year, it is recommended to take stock and consider whether all access points are still needed. Data theft is very popular with hackers and the access data often hides further information about the user, which is then misused for identity theft. It is also recommended to secure all accounts with two-factor authentication. In addition to the user name and password, there is another factor, such as a one-time code via SMS or app, fingerprint or facial recognition.
Tips for successful spring cleaning
- Always keep the operating system or apps up to date: Digital companions such as smartphones, tablets, notebooks or computers should always be up to date and receive regular updates. Users should always activate the automatic update function if possible.
- Password manager and 2FA: Changing passwords regularly does not necessarily increase security. Using a password manager, like in ESET Smart Security Premium, protects passwords and personal data. If possible, 2-factor authentication should be activated. In addition to the user name and password, another factor is added, such as a one-time code via SMS or app, fingerprint or facial recognition.
- Use a security solution: A powerful security solution is part of the basic equipment for PCs, Macs and Android devices. This should offer comprehensive protection against malware, spam and phishing and reliably make everyday digital life easier with helpful functions such as parental controls, password managers, data encryption and theft protection.
There are more tips for successful spring cleaning on WeLiveSecurity:
Clean & safe – let’s do some digital spring cleaning! | WeLiveSecurity
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