How secure is your data?

When a company like messaging service WhatsApp, using what is thought to be an impenetrable end-to-end encryption, is found to have been hacked, alarm bells may start ringing. How safe is your data? Are your conversations being listened to?

Add in the USA, New Zealand and Australia’s stand on Chinese company Huawei’s development of 5G networks and you have a bubbling cauldron of concerns. With internet giants Google now weighing in on the matter and due to withdraw their services from Huawei, the subject of online security is big news.

In a time when data is passed easily and quickly around the globe, cybersecurity is more important than ever. With that in mind, here are some ways you can help to prevent an attack on your company or your personal data:

1. Passwords: A very simple, yet important line of defence. Ensure that all company passwords are strong and are changed regularly, especially if there are changes in company personnel.

2. Firewalls: Install the most up-to-date firewalls and maintain them with updates to keep them working for you.

3. Back up data: Make sure that you have secure backups of all your company data and files. Choose the most secure cloud vault you can afford.

4. Updates: Ensure you have the latest software or download fixes and updates as needed. Keeping up to date with the most secure iteration of your software will help to keep you safer as software companies bring out fixes and updates in line with the most recent attacks.

5. Two-factor authentication: When signing into your accounts, this added layer of verification steps up your protection.

6. VPNs: By using a virtual private network you can have more security while browsing or working on the internet.

There are many other ways to protect your data, but by following our six suggested tips, you are on the road to a safer, more secure relationship with your online information.