Cybersecurity Awareness: Protect Connected Devices – Tech Tip for October 20, 2021

Cybersecurity Awareness: Protect Connected Devices – Tech Tip for October 20, 2021

As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month and continuing to help you and your organization to “Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart”, this week’s TechTip addresses the importance of protecting Internet connected devices… “If you connect it, protect it”.

What Is a Connected Device?

A connected device is anything that is connected to the Internet, via wire, wireless or cell mobile connectivity. It could be your laptop, desktop, tablet, mobile phone or even your smart TV.

How to Protect a Connected Device

To protect your connected devices, follow these important steps:

1. Keep it up to date. Make sure that you apply updates when they become available. Even smart TVs require updates.
2. Pay attention to what you click on (see last week’s TechTip on phishing and smishing). But also pay careful attention to the websites you visit and the apps that you download.
3. Use an antivirus/anti-malware solution. For example, most Windows devices include Windows Defender at no additional charge. It is an effective solution to blocking most issues.
4. Watch out when you’re using your device in public places. Don’t connect to sensitive information over a public wi-fi or if you have to ensure that the connection is encrypted.
5. Password protect your devices. Make sure you are using strong passwords or better yet Multi-Factor Authentication.

Interested in learning more about how to protect your connected devices? Concerned about the security of your organization? Contact us.  

And don’t forget… Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart.

Important Microsoft Announcements:

• Microsoft will begin the rollout of Windows 11 through Windows Update as an update to Windows 10 machines starting on October 5, 2021. This update can be postponed. If you need assistance with controlling the rollout of Windows 11 to your organization, please contact TechWise Group or your IT department.
• Starting November 1, 2021, the following versions of Outlook for Windows, as part of Office and Microsoft 365 Apps, will not be able to connect with Office 365 and Microsoft 365 services: