Essential Cybersecurity Concepts
This site will teach you about different cybersecurity Concepts.
Introduction video
This is the video that we made to give a brief introduction to some basic things to cybersecurity.
Watch VideoPasswords
What makes a good password and how to keep track of them responsibly.
What is a good password?
Having good passwords is one of the most important things about protecting your data online. But what is a good password?
Usually it is pretty long (at least 12 to 15 characters) including numbers, special symbols, avoid common patterns and common words (like password or 1234), and a mix of lower and upper case letters
You should have different passwords for every website. There is a check list below for you to see if your password is good.
How do I remember my passwords?
If you have different passwords for every website, it must be hard to remember all of them, but don't worry, here are some ways to help you remember them.
You can write them down on a note book somewhere in your house, but it is annoying to find a notebook every time you need to log in to something, so the best option is to use a password manager to manage all of your passwords.
Use your browser’s built-in generator (Google/Apple) or a reputable password manager to create and store unique passwords.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Add a second lock to your accounts.
What is MFA?
A MFA sets an extra layer of protection for your accounts. by needing code from a smartphone or text message to access your account, or it can use your fingerprint or facial scan.
How does MFA protect you?
If you don't have MFA enabled, the hacker can get into your account with just your password. However with MFA they will a need finger print or a code from your phone to login to your account, so you should always have MFA enabled on every website.
Management, Emergency. “Enhancing Security with Multi-Factor Authentication: A Shield against Cyber Threats.” Gallatin County Emergency Management, 12 June 2023, www.readygallatin.com/enhancing-security-with-multi-factor-authentication-a-shield-against-cyber-threats/. CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Software Updates
Patching vulnerabilities keeps you ahead of attackers.
Why are updates important?
Because it helps keep your device safe and working properly. New updates often fix security issues and close weaknesses that hackers could use to install viruses or malware. By keeping your software up to date, you lower the risk of cyberattacks and protect your personal information from being stolen.
Malware and viruses are malicious software that are used to steal data or cause damage.
How do I update devices?
You can update your software by checking for updates in the settings or app store, downloading and installing the latest version, and restarting the device if needed. This can keeps our devices secure, fixes bugs, and adds new features.
CC0 1.0
Phishing
Spot the lures before you click.
What is phishing and why is it dangerous?
Phishing emails are emails that try to trick you into sending your personal information to them by using phishing links.
Always double-check links before clicking on them, and don’t trust messages asking for sensitive information out of the blue. Even if they appear to be from known contacts or companies.
Phishing link can send you to malicious websites or trigger malware downloads to steal things like passwords or banking info.
How can I identify a phishing attempt?
Phishing attempts usually contain unexpected messages, urgent language, suspicious links and weird email name of the sender. Every time you see a email like this you should not click on any links or attachments and delete the email.
CC0 1.0
Game
We made a game to test what you learned from this website.
Play Game