Internet Safety: Security Measures for Your Network

Today’s innovative technology has encouraged many organizations to utilize the Internet in an effort to operate more efficiently and offer additional member convenience. However, there are many security concerns associated with Internet use, and it can pose serious threats to those using it. Consider the following tips to protect your organization and members from crimes associated with network security.

Passwords

Account passwords are a foundational form of protection when it comes to network security. Be sure all passwords are complex and not easily identifiable by potential criminals. Review these tips from the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) before choosing a password:

Don’t use passwords that are based on personal information that can be easily accessed or guessed.
Don’t use words that can be found in any dictionary of any language.
Develop a mnemonic for remembering complex passwords.
Use both lowercase and capital letters.
Use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters.
Use passphrases when you can.
Use different passwords on different systems.

Protection Software and Updates

Many individuals and organizations take advantage of antivirus software to protect against malware. These programs will scan your hard drive and email for patterns that are alarming and could potentially do harm. Ensuring your computer operating systems and other software applications are up-to-date is another foundational security protection. Oftentimes, software updates resolve security risks. Be sure your computer systems are updated and you are using adequate antivirus software to protect your network.

Wireless Network

Wireless Networks are helpful when using mobile devices or connecting to building visitors. These three tips can help limit the risk facing your organization’s wireless network:

Ensure you have adequate security associated with your wireless router. WPA and WPA2 are two secure options for Wi-Fi security.
Restrict access through the use of passwords, which allows authorized personnel to use the wireless network.
Install a firewall to protect the network from outside attacks and excessive network traffic.

Email Safety

Email can be a very useful tool in communicating within your organization. However, it can be an easy way for criminals to gain access into your network system. Specifically, some hyperlinks may be links to malware, which can lead to a potential cyber attack. Be sure to verify link URL destinations and see that the sites are legitimate.

When your organization is sending an email, particularly one with sensitive documents that hold private information, using an encryption tool to keep the information safe is a suggested security approach. Encryption serves as a way to send a message to another party using code. Those receiving the message will need a specific, unique code or a virtual key to unlock the encryption and view the message’s content.

Limit Your Risk

The Internet provides a wealth of technology innovations, and serves as a beneficial tool in the lives of individuals and the operations of organizations. Remember the Internet also has its risks and security concerns. For additional information, review these tips and topics of concern from the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team.