Cyber Threat Intelligence
Cybersecurity Tips
Written by
Kyle Gill, Information Security Officer
| Jan 8, 2026 3:00:00 PM
đď¸âđ¨ď¸At a Glance
A
s 2
026 begins, here are some Cybersecurity tips to get you safely started at home and at work.
đĄď¸General
Install All System Updates
Apply the latest updates for Windows/macOS and all installed software.
U
pdates fix security vulnerabilities commonly exploited by attackers.
Tip:
Enable automatic updates whenever possible.
Change Your Passwords
Update passwords for work accounts, VPNs, email, and cloud tools.
Use long, unique passphrases (12+ characters).
Never reuse work passwords on personal sites.
Enable MultiâFactor Authentication (MFA)
Ensure MFA is enabled wherever supported (email, VPN, collaboration tools).
M
FA blocks over 99% of account takeover attacks.
Review Installed Applications
Remove software you no longer useâespecially freeware or browser addâons.
Fewer apps = fewer attack surfaces.
Be PhishâAware
Watch for urgent messages, unexpected attachments, or link-shortened URLs.
When in doubt, verify directly with the sender using a known contact method.
Report suspected phishing emails immediately.
Lock Your Screen
Lock your computer whenever you step awayâeven at home.
Prevents unauthorized access and accidental data exposure.
đąMobile Devices
Update Your Device OS and Apps
Keep iOS/Android and apps fully updated.
Mobile devices are increasingly targeted by threat actors.
Use a Strong Device Lock
Enable a strong PIN, passcode, fingerprint, or face recognition.
Avoid simple codes like 123456 or 0000.
Enable Device Encryption
Ensure full-device encryption is turned on (enabled by default on most modern devices).
Protects company data if the device is lost or stolen.
Review App Permissions
Remove apps you no longer use.
Limit permissions such as access to contacts, camera, microphone, and location.
Turn On âFind My Deviceâ
Enables remote location, lock, or wipe if your device is lost.
Critical for protecting company data.
đ Home Network
Change Your Routerâs Default Password
Replace default admin credentials with a strong, unique password.
Default router passwords are publicly known and widely abused.
Update Router Firmware
Check for and install firmware updates on your home router.
Outdated routers are a common entry point for attackers.
Use Strong WiâFi Security
Enable WPA3 or WPA2âAES encryption.
Avoid outdated standards like WEP or WPA.
Secure Your WiâFi Network Name (SSID)
Donât include personal information (name, address, employer).
Consider turning off SSID broadcasting if supported.
Separate Work and Smart Devices
Keep work computers/phones on a different network from smart TVs, cameras, or IoT devices when possible.
Reduces risk of lateral attacks.
â¨Best Practices
Back Up Important Data
Ensure work files are stored in approved company cloud services.
Protects against ransomware and device failure.
Know How to Report Issues
Save the IT/security contact information.
Report lost devices, suspicious emails, or unusual activity immediately.
Refresh Your Security Awareness
Review company security policies and annual training.
Threats evolveâso should our awareness.
Pause Before You Click
Cybersecurity isnât just toolsâitâs habits.
Slowing down for 5 seconds can prevent a major incident.
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