NW Illinois News

October is Cyber Security Awareness month, bringing attention to the importance of protecting personal information in the digital age. State Representative Tony McCombie is sharing valuable tips to help residents stay safe and secure online.

One of the first and most crucial steps to enhance cybersecurity is to use strong passwords. Representative McCombie emphasizes the significance of creating passwords that are long, random, and unique. He advises including a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to make it difficult for hackers to crack.

Another essential measure to fortify online security is to enable multifactor authentication (MFA). This additional layer of protection ensures that more than just a password is required to access online accounts. Representative McCombie underscores the effectiveness of MFA in reducing the risk of hacking.

Recognizing and reporting phishing attempts is vital in safeguarding personal data. Phishing emails, texts, and calls remain the leading method for compromising data. Representative McCombie urges caution when encountering unsolicited communications that request personal information. He stresses the importance of reporting such instances to prevent further harm.

Furthermore, keeping software up to date is crucial in maintaining cybersecurity. Representative McCombie advises individuals to regularly update their software to ensure they have the latest security patches and updates. This practice helps to protect devices from vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit.

In today's digital world, cyber scams are an ongoing threat. State Representative Tony McCombie's tips provide valuable guidance on how to stay safe and secure online. By following these recommendations, individuals can better protect their personal information and reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks.

Click this link to access more information: https://repmccombie.com/2023/10/19/cyber-security-awareness-month/