Cybersecurity has always been a huge concern for website owners. Some basics are obvious like changing the password regularly, being careful of suspicious emails, etc. But are these steps enough? In fact, most people don’t follow the basic security steps either! While experts in security keep finding newer ways to keep your data secure, there are many myths and misconceptions which people believe in which are not completely true. In this article, we will share five such misconceptions along with the reasons why they shouldn’t be believed.
5 Common Misconceptions about Cyber Security
#1. Nobody can track your activity in ‘Private Browsing’ mode
When you use private browsing mode, your browsing history and cookies are deleted the moment you log off. However, search engines and ISPs (Internet service providers) can record some information even in this mode.
#2.WiFi is Secure if it needs a password
Most people believe that if aWiFi network requires a password, then it is highly secure. In fact, many users perform financial transactions on public WiFi networks and share their personal information as well. When you visit a hotel, airport, or café and use the public WiFi network there, you can use a VPN to create an encrypted connection making it harder for anyone (except yourself) to see your activity.
#3. Your mobile phone can always be tracked (as long as it is switched on)
Many users believe that if they turn off GPS on their phone, then they cannot be tracked. Some businesses who deal with sensitive information require users to leave their mobile phones at home. However, if it is not switched off, then it can always be traced.
#4. A strong alphanumeric password is all the security you need
Having a strong password with at least one capital letter, 2-3 numbers and a special character (minimum 8 characters long) is an essential part of the security of your account. However, most cyber miscreants have started finding ways to crack these passwords too. Hence, many portals offer a two-step authentication process to add a layer of security to your account. The best two-step authentication is the one which generates a unique code every time you log in.
#5. Emails are secure
For many years, phishing has been used by cybercriminals to get users to click on malicious links which seem like ones from the original and trusted source. Over the years, phishers have become better at deception and create emails which look as good as the original. They create a sense of urgency or scare and in the process get your personal information. If in doubt, you should always talk to the concerned establishment for verification.
Summing Up…
Ensure that you keep yourself updated about the latest developments in cybersecurity and train your employees as well. Also, before you buy a hosting plan, talk to the provider about the security steps taken. The Best Cloud Hosting providers will offer the best security tools, antivirus, and anti-malware to ensure that your data is secure. Also, ensure that you take a backup of your website so that you always have a running copy of your website in case of a disaster.
