South West Illinois News

The prevalence of data breaches has made receiving a notification letter about compromised personal information a common experience. Such letters often come from various institutions, including medical providers, government agencies, and employers. The U.S. Government's Cyber Security & Infrastructure Security Agency (CSIS) offers guidance on how individuals can protect their data.

Phishing is one method used by cybercriminals to steal personal information. It involves deceptive messages designed to look like they come from trusted sources. CSIS advises recognizing phishing attempts and resisting the urge to click on suspicious links or attachments. If you suspect phishing, report it using available options such as "report spam" buttons.

Creating strong passwords is another essential step in protecting personal accounts. Weak passwords are easily compromised, but password managers can help maintain unique and secure credentials for different accounts.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification steps beyond just a password. Enabling MFA on accounts that offer it can significantly enhance online safety.

Finally, keeping software up to date is crucial in addressing security vulnerabilities. Turning on automatic updates ensures that devices and applications remain protected against emerging threats.

By following these measures, individuals can better safeguard their personal information against cybercrime threats.