Are You Being Safe Online?

Cyber attacks happen daily all over the world. Sadly, all of us are potential victims. This cyberthreat map, which is updated in real-time, helps to illustrate this reality. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to protect against unauthorized access to our sensitive data. Athreon strongly recommends that computer users take the following 3 precautions to help safeguard against cyber threats:
 

• Use updated antivirus (AV) software. All the AV solutions below are reputable:
  • Avira (this is a free program that offers a paid upgrade)
  • Avast (this is a free program that offers a paid upgrade)
  • Intrusta
  • Bitdefender
  • F-Secure Safe

 
• Use a virtual private network (VPN). If you are unfamiliar with the privacy and security benefits that VPNs offer, we encourage you to watch this video. Likewise, if you ever work at a location away from your home or office, you should use a VPN. Athreon recommends the VPN solutions below:
  • NordVPN
  • ExpressVPN
  • CyberGhost

 
• Use a password manager. Complex passwords can be difficult to memorize, but they’re also more difficult to hack. A password manager can help make managing strong passwords much easier. Athreon recommends the password manager solutions below:
  • LastPass: The free and paid versions are reliable.
  • DashLane: The premium and up versions are reliable. The free version is okay for just perusing, but it is not advisable for long-term use.

 
Cyber threats are not going away anytime soon. They will only become more prevalent. The best way to protect against a data breach or identity theft is to be proactive. We all need to be vigilant about taking precautionary measures. Remember, the investment you make in cyber security will have a cost, but it will be far less expensive than the costs and potential penalties associated with a data breach.

Athreon goes to great lengths to secure and protect all sensitive data entrusted to its care. Whether your organization must comply with CJIS or HIPAA or other security requirements, we’re prepared to assist. Athreon’s rigorous security protocols can complement any speech to text initiative. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation.