It’s that time of the year for cleaning and organizing. It’s also a good time to do the same with your digital world! Here is a four-week program from The Better Business Bureau and the National Cyber Security Alliance designed to help you organize and protect your digital assets.
Week 1: Clean your machines. You’ll want to make sure that all of your web-connected devices ‒ computers, mobile phones, smartphones and tablets ‒ are free from malware and infections. That’s why you want to make sure you update all critical software. Do you say ‘not now’ when your computer requests an update? Updates are one of the best security measures you can take. Make sure you’re keeping up-to-date all security software, web browsers, document readers, operating systems and any other software you use regularly. Delete any unused apps and make it a policy to be extremely cautious when downloading new apps.
Week 2: Make sure you’re secure. Consider using two-factor authentication for important accounts. Secure your router with a strong password. And improve passwords by using upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. Don’t use the same password for all accounts. Change passwords periodically.
Week 3: Purge and protect digital files. Clean out old email. Store important data on a secure cloud site. Permanently delete old files. Unsubscribe to newsletters, email alerts and updates you no longer read. Empty your trash or recycle bin on all devices and permanently delete old files.
Week 4: Clean up your online reputation. Review privacy and security settings for your online accounts, including social media. Delete old photos that no longer represent you on your social media accounts. Review the information for your online self and update where needed.
