Spoiler Alert: Most People and Businesses Are
There was a time when we simply locked our doors, installed high-tech security systems and were careful about where we invested our money, and that was enough to make us feel safe. However, in this increasingly digital world, cyber attacks—that is, maneuvers that target information systems, computer networks, infrastructures, personal computers or smartphones to obtain sensitive information—are dramatically on the rise. In fact, did you know a cyber attack happens every 36 seconds, and worldwide they are projected to cost $8 trillion in 2023 alone?
From ransomware and denial-of-service to cases of sophisticated financial fraud, cyber criminals are endlessly inventive. These sorts of attacks are so pervasive that Whittier Trust has partnered with Stratagem Consulting, a firm made up of retired FBI agents and senior counterintelligence agents combating cyber criminals, to offer a three-part series to help empower our clients, friends and team members to protect themselves from such attacks.
The team at Stratagem offers practical things individuals and businesses can do right away to make themselves safer and gives practical solutions in case of a cyber attack. If you missed our first webinar, “Cyber Crime as a Business,” see a summary of the key takeaways here.
While cybersecurity can seem like a major undertaking, the reality is that individuals can move the needle without engaging high-tech professionals. Instead, making a few small changes to your online behavior can make a huge difference. People and businesses can protect themselves with these three simple actions: eliminate, mitigate, and control.
- How to eliminate some vulnerability:
- Retire compromised usernames
- Close unused email and social media accounts
- Never click on an unsolicited link or attached file
- How to mitigate some vulnerability:
- Dedicate an email for non-essential communications and product registrations
- Never use your true name and info when signing up for a free service
- “Opt out” from commercial data aggregators
- “Opt out” of people search sites
- How to control the rest of your vulnerability:
- Purchase and use a secure encrypted email service for personal and sensitive business
- Ensure privacy settings on social media and mail are set to most restrictive
- Use a web browser that does not track and sell your digital history.
- Install an ad-blocker
- Always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Always update software, operating systems and applications
- If the worst happens and you find yourself the target of an online attack. You can manage the consequences by:
- Monitoring your assets and data
- Calling the account provider
- Calling the FBI
- Not doing it alone—call an expert! Stratagem Consulting remains available to help Whittier Trust clients navigate next steps.
If your interest is piqued (and it should be—cyber crime has the potential to impact everyone), don't miss the last complimentary webinar in this three-part Cybersecurity Series. You’re invited to join us on November 30 at 10:00 a.m. PDT. Sign up here: https://cvent.me/8PPLR5
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