Cyber Hygiene: Simple Daily Practices to Stay Scam-Free

In today’s increasingly digital world, where everything from banking to shopping and business operations is online, cybersecurity threats are more prevalent than ever. Scams and fraud have evolved, targeting individuals and businesses alike. Practising good cyber hygiene—a set of simple daily habits to secure your digital activities—can go a long way in keeping you safe from scams.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Passwords are your first line of defence against unauthorised access. Ensure you create strong passwords for all your accounts. A strong password typically consists of a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using personal information like birthdays or names.
Tip: Use a password manager to generate and store unique passwords securely. Never reuse passwords across multiple platforms—if one is compromised, others remain safe.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Even if your password is stolen, 2FA ensures that only you can access the account by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or email. Prioritise enabling 2FA for sensitive accounts, such as email, banking, and business platforms.

3. Be Cautious with Links and Attachments

Phishing scams often lure victims through deceptive emails, messages, or websites. These messages may contain links or attachments designed to steal your information or infect your device with malware.
Tip: Always verify the sender’s email address or domain and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Hover over links to check their destination before clicking.

4. Keep Software Updated

Outdated software often has vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Regularly update your operating systems, browsers, apps, and antivirus software to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Tip: Enable automatic updates wherever possible to avoid missing critical patches.

5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

An unsecured Wi-Fi network can be an open door for cybercriminals to intercept data or access your devices. Properly securing your Wi-Fi ensures your connection remains private.

• Encrypt Your Network: Use the latest encryption standard, WPA3, for your Wi-Fi network. WPA3 provides stronger encryption and improved security compared to older standards like WPA2 or WEP.
• Change Default Credentials: Replace the default network name (SSID) and administrator login credentials provided by your router manufacturer.
• Use a Strong Password: Set a robust, unique password for your Wi-Fi network, ideally 12–16 characters long with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Tip: Consult your router’s user manual or online resources to ensure your network is configured with WPA3 encryption. Consider upgrading to a newer model if you have a router that does not support WPA3.

6. Regularly Monitor Accounts for Unusual Activity

Frequent monitoring of your bank statements, credit card transactions, and business accounts can help you spot suspicious activity early.
Tip: Set up notifications or alerts for transactions to stay updated on account activity in real-time.

7. Educate Yourself and Your Team

Cybersecurity threats evolve constantly, making it essential to stay informed. Regularly update your knowledge on common scams and best practices. For businesses, conduct employee training to reinforce awareness.
Tip: Create a culture of cybersecurity within your organisation, encouraging vigilance and safe practices.

Practising daily cyber hygiene doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple, proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to scams. As the digital landscape continues to grow, staying vigilant and prepared is not just wise—it’s necessary. At SUNRATE, we prioritise secure, efficient payment solutions, enabling our clients to focus on growth while we safeguard their transactions. Stay informed, stay protected, and keep your digital activities scam-free.