Cybersecurity Best Practices

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting your devices, networks, and data from theft, damage, or unauthorized access. Today, our lives are more connected than ever, whether it’s through smartphones, smart TVs, laptops, or cloud systems. For individuals, families and businesses in rural Alberta, cybersecurity isn’t just about preventing hackers; it’s about keeping your personal information safe, protecting your finances, and ensuring reliable operations at home and at work.

Common Security Threats

Phishing Scams

Fraudulent emails or texts tricking you into giving away passwords or financial details.

Ransomware

Malicious software that locks your files until you pay a ransom.

Identity Theft

Using stolen personal information to open accounts or commit fraud.

Malware & Viruses

Harmful programs that can damage devices  or steal data.

Social Engineering

Scams that manipulate trust to gain access, often targeting seniors or small businesses.

AI and Cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has changed the cybersecurity landscape – for better and worse.

How criminals use AI

Hackers now use AI to create realistic phishing emails, deepfake voices and videos, and automated attacks that are harder to detect. For example, AI can mimic your bank’s style of writing to trick you into clicking on malicious links or clone the voice of your loved one  to trick you.

How defenders use AI

Thankfully, AI is also a powerful tool for protection. AI-powered security systems monitor patterns, detect unusual activity, and stop threats in real time. Many modern devices already have AI security built in.

Understanding AI in cybersecurity helps individuals and businesses stay one step ahead.

Tips to Stay Cyber Safe on Your Devices

Keep Your System & Apps Updated

Turn on automatic updates for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Updates fix security flaws and add AI-powered protections.

Use Built-In Security Features

Windows: Microsoft Defender updates daily with strong protection.
macOS: Gatekeeper and XProtect provide built-in defenses.
iOS/Android: Enable biometric locks, “Find My Device,” and only download from trusted app stores.
Antivirus: If you install one, choose a single trusted solution—never run multiple antivirus programs at once.

Choose a Secure Browser

Use popular, trusted browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Brave, or Edge.
Enable HTTPS-only mode, ad-blocking, and anti-tracking features.
Avoid outdated browsers like Internet Explorer.

Email Best Practices

Stick with trusted providers like Gmail or Outlook.
Never click on unknown attachments or suspicious links.
Watch for phishing attempts mimicking banks, CRA, or shipping companies.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all important accounts.

Wired Connections are Safer

Ethernet cables are faster, more stable, and more secure than Wi-Fi.
If Wi-Fi is needed, consider a mesh Wi-Fi system to cover larger homes.

Practice Smart Online Habits

Avoid downloading “free” software from sketchy sites.
Ignore scareware pop-ups claiming your PC is infected.
Use browser extensions like uBlock Origin (ads), Privacy Badger (trackers), and Bitwarden (password manager).
Never plug in unknown USB sticks.

Strengthen Your Logins

Use unique passwords for every account.
Consider a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or Dashlane.
Always turn on 2FA for email, banking, and cloud storage.

In a nutshell, update devices, use secure browsers, enable built-in security, avoid suspicious downloads/emails, and protect accounts with strong passwords + 2FA.

Cybersecurity for Small Businesses

Small businesses are frequent targets for cyberattacks, especially in rural communities where IT resources may be limited. The cost of a breach can be devastating, not just financially but also in terms of reputation.

Best Practices for Small Businesses:

Train staff regularly on spotting phishing scams.
Use strong firewalls and endpoint security solutions.
Backup data frequently and store it securely (consider both cloud and offline backups).
Segment business and personal devices.
Consider cyber liability insurance.

Partnering with organizations to learn more and access resources can help small businesses stay cybersafe.

Some Resources to Learn More About Cybersecurity

Here are some reliable Canadian cybersecurity resources to explore:

These resources provide checklists, how-to guides, and training materials for both individuals and small businesses.