The Ultimate Holiday Gift: Cybersecurity for Your Loved Ones
During the festive season, many of us find ourselves surrounded by family and friends, ready to tackle another year of tech woes like spotty Wi-Fi or malfunctioning gadgets. But this year, let’s shift the focus from fixing hardware to offering something more valuable: cybersecurity advice. This small gesture can make a big difference in protecting your loved ones from online threats.
Think of cybersecurity as an investment in preventing those “oh no” moments—like discovering a hack or having your bank accounts drained. Despite the common belief that “it won’t happen to me,” outdated passwords can easily become a gateway for hackers. So why not take a few minutes this holiday season to guide your family towards better online protection?
We spoke with Rachel Tobac, CEO of SocialProof Security, and Caitlin Condon, vulnerability intelligence director at Rapid7, for expert advice on how to start this important conversation with your family.
“It’s often not enough to merely recommend or install security technologies; we need to help loved ones learn how to use these technologies to build confidence and trust.”
Caitlin Condon
Both experts emphasize focusing on security basics that offer the most protection. Here’s how you can help:
- Password Managers: Encourage your loved ones to use a password manager. These tools save login details and generate complex passwords, reducing the risk associated with reusing passwords across different accounts. Options like Bitwarden or built-in browser managers are great starting points.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Help them set up MFA on vital accounts like email, which acts as a key to other online services. Using apps like Duo Mobile can offer an extra layer of security by generating codes rather than relying on text messages.
- Be “Politely Paranoid”: Teach them to verify any unexpected calls or messages by contacting companies directly through official numbers or websites. Bookmarking official login pages can also help quickly verify any suspicious communications.
By guiding family members through these steps, you empower them to protect their digital lives confidently.
“When we go home for the holidays, our family often asks us for things that aren’t the most critical issues. Instead of focusing on less relevant advice, start with essential security practices.”
Rachel Tobac
The combination of using a password manager, enabling MFA, and adopting a cautiously skeptical mindset are simple yet effective ways to fortify against malicious hackers. These foundational steps in cybersecurity not only safeguard your loved ones but also provide peace of mind—a truly invaluable gift during the holiday season.
