How can you protect against data breaches?

As technology continues to advance, data breaches are becoming more common, and the damage they cause can be severe. CSO wrote an article about the 15 biggest data breaches of the 21st century. 

Cybercriminals can use the information obtained from data breaches for financial gain, identity theft, and other malicious activities. Therefore, it is important to take measures to protect yourself against data breaches. 

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself

1. Strong Passwords: A strong password can go a long way in protecting your personal information. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. You should also avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
2. Two-Factor Authentication: Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that requires you to enter a code that is sent to your phone or email after entering your password. It makes it harder for hackers to gain access to your account, even if they have your password. Learn more about 2FA in the previous article.
3. Keep Software Up-To-Date: Hackers often target vulnerabilities in outdated software. Make sure you keep your operating system, web browser, and all other software up-to-date.
4. Limit Access to Personal Information: Be careful about sharing personal information online. Only provide sensitive information when it is necessary, and avoid sharing it on social media.
5. Be Wary of Suspicious Emails: Phishing emails are a common tactic used by hackers to gain access to personal information. Be wary of emails from unknown sources, and do not click on links or download attachments from suspicious emails.
6. Use Encryption: Use encryption to protect sensitive data such as passwords, financial information, and other personal information. Encryption scrambles your data so that it can only be read by someone who has the encryption key.
7. Regularly Back Up Data: Regularly backing up your data is a good practice in case of a data breach. If your data is compromised, you can restore it from a backup.
8. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card accounts for any suspicious activity. If you notice any unauthorized transactions, report them immediately.

The best way to protect yourself from data breaches is to be vigilant and put forth effort. Taking the steps above can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a data breach. In order to safeguard your personal information, it's important to stay informed and stay alert to emerging threats.