Cyber Security and You!

At ProValue Insurance, we encourage you as an individual or organization to own your role in protecting your part of cyberspace, as well as stressing personal accountability and the importance of taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity.

Here are a few fast facts about cyber security and what you can do to help protect yourself from cyber risks!

• Did you know in 2019 more than $3.5 billion was lost globally to cybercrime? The average cost of a data breach for a US company in 2019 was $8.19 million; that's an increase of 130% since 2006!
• Over 7 million data records are compromised daily!
• Cybercriminals often impersonate big name brands, famous personalities, or even relatives. Often times it only takes one person to create a data breach.
• There are currently an estimated 4.8 billion Internet users—over 62% of the world's population!
• Cybercriminals often rely on human error—employees failing to install software patches or clicking on malicious links—to gain access to systems.

Listed below are a few simple tips to protect yourself and organziation while online:

Tip #1 - Double your login protection.
Enable multi-factor authentication to ensure that the only person who has access to your account is you. Use it for email, banking, social media, and any other service that requires logging in.

Tip #2 - If you connect it, protect it.
Whether it’s your computer, smartphone, game device, or other network devices, the best defense is to stay on top of things by updating to the latest security software, web browser, and operating systems. If you have the option to enable automatic updates to defend against the latest risks, turn it on.

Tip #3 - Keep tabs on your apps.
Many connected appliances, toys, and devices are supported by a mobile application. Your mobile device could be filled with apps running in the background or using default permissions you never realized you approved— gathering your personal information without your knowledge while also putting your identity and privacy at risk. Check your app permissions and learn to just say

Tip #4 - Think before you act.
Be wary of communications that implore you to act immediately. Many phishing emails attempt to create a sense of urgency, causing the recipient to fear their account or information is in jeopardy. If you receive a suspicious email that appears to be from someone you know, reach out to that person directly on a separate secure platform. If the email comes from an organization but still looks “phishy,” reach out to them via customer service to verify the communication.

Tip #5 - Treat business information as personal information.
Business information typically includes a mix of personal and proprietary data. While you may think of trade secrets and company credit accounts, it also includes employee personally identifiable information through tax forms and payroll accounts. Do not share any personally identifiable information with unknown parties or over unsecured networks.

Did you know we offer identity theft protection services? In the event of a cyber attack, ProValue Insurance could help your identity stay safe. Learn more by contacting us today at contact@provalueins.com

Sources: National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM). (2020, October). Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (www.cisa.gov)