As many individuals and companies worldwide are gravitating to online learning courses, professional development webinars and online meetings; cybersecurity becomes an important consideration in maintaining personal privacy. The platform Zoom has increased its audience during COVID-19, quickly becoming the front-runner for connecting learners and professionals growing from 10 million users to over 200 million users in three months. As we maintain physical distancing, you may now have more time and opportunities to access free online training courses that can enhance your skills, knowledge and resume.
Graeme Barrie outlines many tips for protecting yourself online, based on the Hands-ON: Cybersecurity While Working from Home with Netmechanics webinar. This session was hosted by the Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster, Peterborough & Kawartha Lakes Economic Development, Make It Your Downtown Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Greater Peterborough Economic Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures Peterborough.
- Avoid phishing emails related to COVID-19. Do not click on these email as malicious files will be downloaded to your computer.
- Avoid fake messages that are offering free things such as COVID masks, PC optimum points or Walmart gift cards.
- Stay away from malicious websites that are promoting information or products related to COVID-19.
- Avoid malicious mobile apps for Android devices as they can lock your phone and charge a ransom.
- Turn on automatic updates for Zoom so you benefit from any system security improvements.
- If you are hosting a meeting, keep Waiting Room enabled, turn off the Attendee Share Screen option, lock the meeting when everyone has arrived. As an attendee, you will need to use your real name as a result.
- Create a password that is not easily hacked. “Longer is stronger”. Eight-character passwords can be cracked in 2.5 hours. Song lyrics are good to use as they are difficult to crack.
- Don’t share passwords between accounts.
- Avoid sharing confidential or personal information.
- Turn off smart speakers such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa, especially when discussing confidential information.
For more great tips on cybersecurity, review the entire video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4C878toX-E
We are now more reliant than ever on internet access. Maintaining your digital privacy allows you the freedom to pursue online learning and engage in online meetings with more confidence.
EPC is currently closed to the public. Our staff continue are committed to providing ongoing service for job seekers. If you would like assistance with your job search, career exploration or educational planning contact 705.748.9110. We wish you and your loved ones a safe and healthy journey as we make our way through this period of social isolation in an effort to ‘flatten the curve’ for the spread of COVID-19