Cybersecurity for beginners

1 February 2019 Information Security

Current cybersecurity reports prove that we should think twice before being careless on the internet. With so many cyber-attacks and private data invasions, every netizen has to know at least about basic steps to be protected on the network.

1. Take care of your passwords

Passwords are considered to be sensitive information and vulnerable to being stolen. That’s why you need to make strong enough combinations containing both letters and numbers, at least 8-10 (or more) characters. Be sure that you change them monthly. If you use lots of services and can’t create long and strong passwords, use a password generator for these needs. For more information, you can read about these 9 simple steps that will save your data.

2. Don’t forget to update your antivirus software

The security of your PC depends on your antivirus software. For this reason, never ignore updates offered by its developers. You can also enable the automatic mode of updates.

3. Be careful with strange links in e-mails and ads

If you receive strange e-mails from unknown or even known people, don’t click on any links. You may fall victim to phishing attacks. Cybercriminals often pretend to be an official establishment, for example, banks.

Moreover, don’t click on any link you see in ads as they may also be infected with malware.

4. Keep your personal information private

Personal data is one of the main targets for hackers and snoopers. Sharing your sensitive data, you risk becoming one of the hacker’s victims. Use a VPN service that will encrypt everything your transfer through the network.

5. Encrypt internet connections

As it has been mentioned above, to make your online presence more private, you need to encrypt internet connections when you pay online, use messengers, send e-mails, etc.

6. Avoid using free public Wi-Fi networks

Public Wi-Fi spots are full of strangers that can easily access the network to steal users’ data and passwords. Try not to do shopping online from cafes or airports. You’ll avoid possible problems connected with data theft.

7. Install back-up software

Back-up software will protect all your important files from being deleted. It’s a good way to be away from unexpected troubles.





Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page



Further reading:

The impact of AI on security
Technews Publishing Information Security AI & Data Analytics
Today’s threat actors have moved away from signature-based attacks that legacy antivirus software can detect, to ‘living-off-the-land’ using legitimate system tools to move laterally through networks. This is where AI has a critical role to play.

Read more...
Managed security solutions for organisations of all sizes
Information Security
Cyberattackers have become significantly more sophisticated and determined, targeting businesses of all sizes. PwC’s Global Digital Trust Insights Survey 2025 Africa and South Africa highlights the urgent need for organisations to implement robust cyber risk mitigation strategies.

Read more...
Multiple IoT devices targeted
Information Security Residential Estate (Industry)
Mirai remains one of the top threats to IoT in 2025 due to widespread exploitation of weak login credentials and unpatched vulnerabilities, enabling large-scale botnets for DDoS attacks, data theft and other malicious activities.

Read more...
Local-first data security is South Africa's new digital fortress
Infrastructure Information Security
With many global conversations taking place about data security and privacy, a distinct and powerful message is emerging from South Africa: the critical importance of a 'local first' approach to data security.

Read more...
Sophos launches advisory services to deliver proactive cybersecurity resilience
Information Security News & Events
Sophos has launched a suite of penetration testing and application security services, designed to identify gaps in organisations’ security programs, which is informed by Sophos X-Ops Threat Intelligence and delivered by world-class experts.

Read more...
Kaspersky highlights biometric and signature risks
Information Security News & Events
AI has elevated phishing into a highly personalised threat. Large language models enable attackers to craft convincing emails, messages and websites that mimic legitimate sources, eliminating grammatical errors that once exposed scams.

Read more...
Software security is a team sport
Information Security Infrastructure
Building and maintaining secure software is not a one-team effort; it requires the collective strength and collaboration of security, engineering, and operations teams.

Read more...
Stronger cloud protection
Kaspersky Information Security Products & Solutions
Kaspersky has announced the release of an enhanced version of its Kaspersky Cloud Workload Security, delivering advanced protection for hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

Read more...
AttackIQ enters South Africa with key appointment
Information Security News & Events
AttackIQ, a provider of continuous security validation and exposure management, has announced its entry into the South African market with the appointment of Luke Cifarelli as its country manager.

Read more...
Managed security solutions for organisations of all sizes
Information Security News & Events
Cyber attackers have become significantly more sophisticated and determined, targeting businesses of all sizes. PwC’s Global Digital Trust Insights Survey 2025 Africa and South Africa highlights the urgent need for organisations to implement robust cyber risk mitigation strategies.

Read more...










While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd. | All Rights Reserved.