Top Tips for Internet Security at Work

With nearly two-thirds of Americans personally affected by cybercrime, it’s no wonder cybercrime is recognized as one of the top epidemics of our time.  Cybercrime impacts all of us and cybercriminals are becoming more and more sophisticated.  Don’t be a victim of cybercrime.  Start fighting back by protecting yourself and your company with these tips today:

#1- Defend Your Workspace

• Keep browser & computer software current with automatic updates.
• Install a reputable antivirus/antispyware and firewall.  Using a free antivirus PC software is not recommended.  
• Never turn off your firewall.
• Think before you click.  Criminals are highly sophisticated, so extend caution before clicking a link or opening an attachment.  Test your Internet Security IQ--can you spot a fraudulent email?
• To verify if a message is legit—even if it is from a coworker or friend, contact the sender directly using a different device or account.

#2 Protect Company Data & Financial Assets

• Do not send confidential information in IM, chat, email or text messages.
• Use a dedicated computer for payroll & accounting that is not used for email or web browsing.
• Use long, strong passwords with a mixture of numbers, capital/lowercase letters & symbols.  
• Do not use the most common password symbols such as “$”, “*”, and “!”
• Do not use passwords that contain words, names, or birthdates.
• Inform your IT security personnel immediately if you suspect you’ve been hacked. The sooner it’s caught the better.

#3 Don’t Let Your Guard Down When You’re Out of the Office

• Do not make sensitive transactions over public wifi networks.
• Confirm the exact spelling of the web page you’re connecting to– look out for slight misspellings like www.micrsoft.com.
• Encrypt all confidential data and always protect your devices with strong passwords in case they’re stolen.
• Do not allow an unknown USB/flash drive into your computer.

Security is one of our top priorities at ACC Telecom.  Since 1979, we’ve installed user-friendly, cost-effective, secure business communications systems and surveillance for clients from Frederick, MD, to Washington D.C. and throughout Maryland and Northern VA.  Customer service and safety are their top priorities – which is why they offer 24/7 emergency service to keep your system functioning optimally. Give them a call today at (410) 995-0101 to schedule an appointment. Visit their website to learn about their service guarantee.