Cyber Security Dos and Don’ts actions

The following Cyber Security Dos and Don’ts help remind us of actions we must take to remain vigilant.

DO use hard-to-guess passwords or passphrases. A password should have a minimum of 10 characters using uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. To make it easy for you to remember but hard for an attacker to guess, create an acronym. For example, pick a phrase that is meaningful to you, such as “My son's birthday is 12 December 2004.” Using that phrase as your guide, you might use Msbi12/Dec,4 for your password.

DO use different passwords for different accounts. If one password gets hacked, your other accounts are not compromised.

DO keep your passwords or passphrases confidential. DON’T share them with others or write them down. You are responsible for all activities associated with your credentials.

DON’T leave sensitive information lying around the office. DON’T leave printouts or portable media containing private information on your desk. Lock them in a drawer to reduce the risk of unauthorized disclosure.

DON’T post any private or sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, passwords or other private information, on public sites, including social media sites, and DON’T send it through email unless authorized to do so. DO use privacy settings on social media sites to restrict access to your personal information.

DO pay attention to phishing traps in email and watch for telltale signs of a scam. DON’T open mail or attachments from an untrusted source. If you receive a suspicious email, the best thing to do is to delete the message and report it to your manager and to your IT Support vendor.

DON’T click on links from an unknown or untrusted source. Cyber attackers often use them to trick you into visiting malicious sites and downloading malware that can be used to steal data and damage networks.

DON’T be tricked into giving away confidential information. It’s easy for an unauthorized person to call and pretend to be an employee or business partner. DON’T respond to phone calls or emails requesting confidential data.

DO destroy information properly when it is no longer needed. Place paper in designated confidential destruction bins throughout the office or use a crosscut shredder. For all electronic storage media, consult with your Managed IT Services provider.

DO be aware of your surroundings when printing, copying, faxing or discussing sensitive information. Pick up information from printers, copiers, or faxes in a timely manner.

DON’T install unauthorized programs on your work computer. Malicious applications often pose as legitimate software.

DON’T plug in portable devices without permission from your agency management. These devices may be compromised with code just waiting to launch as soon as you plug them into a computer.

DO lock your computer and mobile phone when not in use. This protects data from unauthorized access and use.

DON’T leave devices unattended. Keep all mobile devices, such as laptops and cell phones physically secured. If a device is lost or stolen, report it immediately to your manager and ISO/designated security representative.

DO remember that wireless is inherently insecure. Avoid using public Wi-Fi hotspots. When you must, use agency provided virtual private network software to protect the data and the device.

DON’T leave wireless or Bluetooth turned on when not in use. Only do so when planning to use and only in a safe environment.

DO report all suspicious activity and cyber incidents to your manager and ISO/designated security representative. Challenge strangers whom you may encounter in the office.  Keep all areas containing sensitive information physically secured and allow access by authorized individuals only.  Part of your job is making sure NYS data is properly safeguarded, and is not damaged, lost or stolen.

IT Support LA is dedicated to protecting privacy; safeguarding the State’s information assets and infrastructure; identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities; detecting, responding, and recovering from cyber incidents; and promoting cyber awareness and education. We stand ready to assist and support you in your cyber security risk management efforts. Remember - cyber security is everyone’s responsibility! We hope all users take these CyberSecurity dos and don’ts to heart.

Even with the best intentions, people get busy and forget to take caution. In the event of a data breach where your Personally Identifiable Information (PII) has been stolen, THESE are the steps you must take immediately.

If you are a consumer, please heed these CyberSecurity Dos and Don’ts, and if you are a business, make certain that your IT support and Services team has covered every network defense, and have a strong backup and disaster recovery plan in place. If you have no set, reliable IT service, just Google IT Support Los Angeles – there will be plenty of reputable options available.