Being a victim of a cyberattack is more common than you may think. In 2021, Singapore experienced a 145% increase in cyberattacks compared to the previous year. And of the total crimes that happened in the country in 2020, near half of those (43%) were classified as cybercrimes. 

This trend, according to the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, is due to “the rapid growth of e-commerce, [and] the proliferation of community marketplace platforms and social media platforms.”

Right now, standing by and fearing you’ll be the next cybercrime victim is not an option. Every online user needs to take active steps in cyber security monitoring to protect themselves against the different types of cyber security threats out there. 

Staying safe online at home

• Install antivirus software

Take stock of your devices — computers, laptops, tablets, mobile phones — and make sure that you have antivirus software installed. You don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate account for each because many security providers allow you to install their software on multiple devices for their annual plans. Remember to update it on a regular basis.

• Change your passwords

Use different secure passwords for different platforms — and update them regularly. The rule of thumb is to use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Try sentence fragments and slightly alter their spelling. If you have trouble remembering them all, don’t write them down; try using a password manager.

• Get a secure home broadband

When selecting a home broadband provider, speed and price are always the first things most people consider — but don’t forget about security. Protect yourself straight from the source by getting a home broadband connection that can detect and stop threats, just like SecureNet from ViewQwest. Ask your provider if they have threat prevention.

Safety in the workplace and in public

• Use a VPN

When using a public WiFi connection in a restaurant, cafe, or a large office setting, your device can be vulnerable to hacking by the other devices connected to the same network. Double your security by using a VPN (virtual private network). It gives you a secure connection between your device and an internet server. Never conduct private transactions when connected to these public networks. 

• Participate in cyber security audits

Many organisations conduct a regular examination of their cyber security. They look at their operational security, network and system security, and their physical security. Understand why this is being done, and ensure you implement the changes to cover any security gaps found. Join discussions, and ask the experts your questions, if you have any. 

• Listen to your IT team

Don’t just delete those security memos you receive on your work email. Take the time to read and understand them. Those often include some useful tips on protecting yourself and your data that could save you and your work in the future. 

Manage your devices 

• Keep your system and applications updated

An updated system is a protected one. Depending on the operating system you’re using, your device could prompt you to update its system on a weekly or monthly basis. You can also schedule them at night or at the end of your work day. 

• Backup your files regularly

In the event your files do get corrupted, hacked, or erased, you’ll be thankful you have a backup of them. Go for a two-fold measure: back them up on a cloud storage service like DropBox, GoogleDrive, or iCloud; and on a physical backup using an external hard drive. Create a weekly backup reminder on your calendar so you’ll never forget.

Knowledge is the best protection

Arm yourself with the right knowledge to protect yourself and your data. Take the appropriate precautions but also learn what to do in case the unfortunate event does happen.

Protect yourself and your home by getting a home broadband connection with constant security. SecureNet from ViewQwest gives you peace of mind with all your online activities. Powered by Palo Alto Networks, it detects threats, and stops them.