STI Technology Solutions has been a long time event sponsor of the Foundation Mini Golf Fundraiser. They are writing a guest blog here today to share some security tips with you! 

 Be Cautious of Links

• Be suspicious of any links in emails. These are common ways for criminals to get your personal information

 Vary your Passwords

• Do not use a single password for all of your different accounts. This way, if your credentials get stolen they won’t work on other sites

 Use a Password Manager

• By using a password manager, you won’t have to remember or write down the login information for any of your sites

 Setup Multi-Factor Authentication

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds another layer of protection for your personal data by requiring verification of a user’s identity

 Avoid Using Debit Cards Online

• When shopping online opt for a credit card or online payment method like PayPal that isn’t directly tied to your bank account

 Don’t Save Payment Information

• Breaches happen all of the time. If your credit card isn’t saved on a site then criminals can’t steal this information

 Keep Your Operating System Up to Date

• The older an operating system is the more time criminals have to find vulnerabilities. Operating System updates patch known weak spots

 Avoid Unknown Web Sites

• Exercise caution when visiting new Web Sites. They are more likely to carry “Drive-By Download Attacks” than well-established sites

 Be Careful of Social Media

• Be aware of what you are sharing online. Criminals can learn a lot of information just by what you post

 Install Anti-Virus Software

• Thee are so many ways your data can be compromised. Install anti-virus software to help combat digital attacks

 Avoid Unnecessary Downloads

• Downloaded files are a prime tactic criminals use to gain access to your network. Be aware of anything you are downloading

 Be Overly Suspicious

• Although many things online are secure, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Be aware of anything you are doing online

 Backup Your Information

• The best solution to an encrypted data incident (ransomware) is to erase and re-install. Using a quality backup solution creates a headache, not a nightmare

 Use Mobile Devices Safely

• Lock with a PIN. Do not store or transmit personal details. Only install apps from trusted sources (AppStore, Google Play)

 Email Can be Read like a Postcard

• Unencrypted email can be read by anyone on the internet. Do not send personal information through non-secured email

 You are a Target to Hackers

• Don’t say “It won’t happen to me”. We are all at risk and the personal & financial stakes are high

 Lock your Device

• Never leave your laptop/smartphone/tablet unlocked when you are away. Setup a password or pin code for your device

 Never Share Your Passwords

• EVER

STI Technology Solutions is a Central Missouri computer support business providing solutions to companies using fewer than 25 computers. STI provides reliable email hosting, secure & recoverable file storage, end user desktop support, network security and VoIP telephone to provide a reliable business system. STI handles the complicated business of computer support allowing our clients to do what they do best.