4 Easy Steps that Everyone Can Follow to Stay Safe Online During Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October 11, 2024 | Blog
If protection leads to cybersecurity, and cybersecurity leads to online safety, then reassurance is built. But in today’s digital world, no one is safe unless we proactively stay safe online by protecting ourselves. With billions of users connected worldwide, overall protection is stretched thin. Taking our safety into our own hands requires mindfulness, accountability, and trusted IT security partners. Companies know robust cybersecurity for businesses is paramount to gain their customers’ trust, build strong relationships, and attract more customers. The conversation now focuses on why cybersecurity awareness belongs to all of us.
This October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. IT Group, Inc. (ITG) and its trusted technological partner, ManageEngine (ME), celebrate by raising cybersecurity awareness for every person, business, and organization to unite and spread the importance of cybersecurity best practices in our digital lives. “The theme of Cybersecurity Awareness Month is Secure Our World, reminding us there are simple ways to protect yourself, your family, and your business from online threats,” said the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
As the National Cybersecurity Alliance shares this campaign focusing on the top four ways to stay safe online, ITG and ME rally with the same mission and add more cybersecurity solutions for both B2B and B2C businesses.
1. Raising Awareness and Understanding the Importance of Cybersecurity
Change begins by recognizing what harms or fails. Raising cybersecurity awareness helps individuals and businesses make informed decisions. Today, most people use smartphones for browsing, emails, and social media—prime targets for cybercriminals. Cyber hackers use email phishing scams and social engineering tactics to steal personal information and access your digital life.
For companies, such incidents impact trust. Hackers often impersonate trusted brands like banks or online stores to lure customers into phishing traps. While your business might not be directly compromised, your company’s name and reputation can be misused. The best approach is to be proactive by educating customers on how and where to report phishing attempts and providing assistance.
Customers should remain alert: never blindly click links or download attachments from suspicious emails. “Phishing is when criminals send fake emails or messages to trick you into clicking malicious links or downloading malware,” said the National Cybersecurity Alliance. “Some email platforms enable reporting phishing attempts—alert your IT department immediately if phishing targets your work email.”
2. Simple Yet Secure: Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are essential for safe B2B transactions and B2C online experiences. On World Password Day, IT Group, Inc. emphasized that password security is the gatekeeper of our digital identities, controlling access to shopping, communication, work, and socializing.
By using complex passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, you protect your data against cyber threats and hackers using common password-cracking tools. According to a detailed guide by Walden University, the more complex your passwords, the stronger your protection.
3. Multi-Factor Authentication: Double Your Security
Investing in multi-factor authentication (MFA) or two-factor authentication (2FA) is crucial for businesses to protect customers and employees. 2FA enhances security by sending a one-time PIN to a verified device, ensuring only authorized users can access accounts.
As IT Group, Inc. explains, “MFA creates a sense of security—only the account holder can access the PIN. If unauthorized access is attempted, the real user receives immediate notification.” This not only secures transactions but also builds trust and a reputation for strong cybersecurity for businesses.
ManageEngine offers ADSelfService Plus with MFA options across Windows, macOS, Linux, VPN, and cloud apps, using over 18 verification methods including biometrics and time-based one-time passwords (TOTP). This solution helps companies fortify their cybersecurity from the inside out.
4. Regularly Updating Software to Strengthen Security
During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, IT experts stress the importance of regularly updating software. Developers continuously patch vulnerabilities and improve security through updates. Installing regular updates for your devices, software, and apps ensures you are protected against new cyber threats and have access to the latest features.
The National Cybersecurity Alliance recommends enabling automatic updates to maintain the best level of software security with minimal effort.
ITG and ManageEngine: Your Enterprise Cybersecurity Partners
ManageEngine provides robust password management solutions like ADSelfService Plus and Password Manager Pro for businesses. ADSelfService Plus offers self-service password reset and account unlock features, enforced by strong password policies and multi-factor authentication. Password Manager Pro provides centralized, secure credential management with periodic password rotation, robust access controls, and seamless privileged account governance.
Connect with Cybersecurity Experts Today
This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let’s build a safer digital world together. Simple actions like raising awareness, using strong passwords, enabling MFA, and updating software strengthen your online safety at home, work, or school.
With regional offices in ASEAN countries — Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore — ITG delivers customized cybersecurity solutions and fosters digital transformation for over 200 clients.
Partner with ITG and ManageEngine to proactively combat cyber threats with effective IT security solutions tailored to your business needs. Together, let’s stay safe online and secure your digital future.