Daniel Todd Lerner champions the cause of personal safety in the realm of modern technology. In an era defined by unprecedented connectivity, safeguarding our personal data has become increasingly paramount. In the following article, Daniel Lerner discusses how to protect one’s personal data in our increasingly connected world.
The Internet is the cornerstone of modern life.
Along with technology, it has connected people from around the world and has kept all types of businesses running, even in the face of a pandemic. Without it, the world would lose instant global information exchange, digital connectivity, and access to unrivaled levels of communication and knowledge.
However, Daniel Todd Lerner maintains that, even with the great power of the Internet, it poses significant risks for every user, especially businesses. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) says that digital information theft is currently the most commonly reported form of fraud, surpassing physical theft. [1]
With continuous interconnectivity and technological progress, the need for advancements in cybersecurity is critical. Below, Daniel Todd Lerner provides insights into the best practices for individuals and businesses to safeguard their digital assets using cybersecurity.
Daniel Todd Lerner on Why Cybersecurity Matters
For Individuals
Anyone who uses the Internet will benefit from cybersecurity. Not only does it provide a sense of digital privacy, but it also helps safeguard an individual’s personal information, online identities, and financial assets from theft and fraud.
Daniel Todd Lerner notes that, unfortunately, data breaches are incredibly prevalent. If a data breach affects one’s personal data, hackers will have access to their banking information or even Social Security number. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that identity theft is more prevalent now than ever, with
By being extra cautious online and staying informed about best practices in cybersecurity, individuals can proactively secure their online presence and safeguard their sensitive information from hackers.
For Businesses
Daniel Todd Lerner explains that the potential consequences are different for businesses. Cyberattacks can put a company’s data, money, and reputation at risk. If a person with malicious intent gains access to a business network, they can quickly cause a substantial amount of damage with the data they find, including:
- The company’s banking details
- Credit card information of customers
- Access to customer lists
- The company’s pricing structure
- Business plans
- Product designs
- Other types of intellectual property
Additionally, as more companies adapt to remote work setups and utilize cloud-based technology, hackers can easily exploit the vulnerabilities of any weak or unsecured networks. It’s crucial for companies to protect their digital assets for many financial and reputational reasons.
Digital Defense: Cybersecurity Tips and Best Practices
For Individuals
- Practice Password Safety: Daniel Todd Lerner says that it’s important for individuals to use different passwords for different sites. Otherwise, if one application gets breached, the credentials that are exposed will likely work on other sites as well. To help with keeping passwords organized, use a trusted password manager.
- Be Cautious of Links: Links are one of the most common methods that hackers use to try and gain access to personal data. Suspicious links in emails typically appear in the form of password recovery emails, banking statements, or flight reservations. If a user simply clicks this link, they will be taken to a fake website asking to input private information. When a hacker receives this data, they are then free to do whatever they want with it.
- Safeguard Payment Information: Daniel Todd Lerner notes that, when making an online payment, individuals should avoid using a debit card or connecting their bank account to applications. If possible, use different payment methods like Wise or PayPal. Also, when websites ask to save credit card information to make future online payments easier, don’t do it.
For Businesses
- Conduct Risk Assessment: To determine the best way to protect a company’s network is to learn everything about how it works – determine how and where data is stored and who can access it. Identify possible risks that may affect the safety and security of important company information, networks, and systems. Once the analysis is complete, determine, develop, and refine the best applicable cybersecurity strategy.
- Train Employees: According to the Psychology of Human Error, a joint study by Stanford University researchers and security firm Tessian, over 85 percent of data breaches are caused by employee mistakes, which is why it’s crucial to invest in cybersecurity training for all company employees.
- Keep Systems Updated: Regularly update to the latest operating system, web browser, and security software to maximize the company’s defenses against viruses, malware, data breaches, and other online threats. Setting up an antivirus software can further protect the office systems by detecting spyware, ransomware, and phishing scams.
Daniel Todd Lerner highlights that by staying informed, vigilant, and compliant with cybersecurity best practices, individuals and businesses not only safeguard their digital assets, but also contribute to a more secure digital platform for all.
