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Encryption is a method of securing information. It converts readable data into secret code. Only the right key can decode it. This guide will help you understand different encryption methods.

What is Encryption?

Encryption is like a secret language. It converts regular text into unreadable text. This unreadable text is called ciphertext. Only people who have the right key will be able to convert it into normal text, called plaintext.

Why Do We Use Encryption?

We use encryption to keep our information safe. It makes our data safe from hackers. This is very important for privacy and security.

How Does Encryption Work?

Encryption uses algorithms and keys. An algorithm is a set of rules for solving problems. A key is somewhat like a password that unlocks the secret message.

Symmetric vs Asymmetric Encryption

There are two main types of encryption: symmetric and asymmetric.

Symmetric encryption uses the same key for encryption and decryption. The same key is shared between the sender and receiver. It’s fast but less secure when the key is shared.

Asymmetric encryption uses two keys: a public key and a private key. A public key can encrypt a message, while a private key can decrypt it. It’s more secure since only the private key unlocks the message.

What Are Some Common Encryption Methods?

There are numerous encryption methods in use today. Here are some of the most common ones:

AES (Advanced Encryption Standard)

AES is one of the most secure forms of encryption. It is symmetric encryption. AES can have 128, 192, or 256-bit keys. The longer the key, the harder it is to break.

RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman)

RSA is an asymmetric encryption method. It uses two keys: a public and a private key. RSA is widely used for secure data transmission.

DES (Data Encryption Standard)

DES was once a popular symmetric encryption method. It uses a 56-bit key, which is now considered weak. DES has mostly been replaced by AES.

ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography)

ECC is an asymmetric technique that offers better security and more compact key sizes. It is efficient and widely adopted in various mobile gadgets.

How Do We Use Encryption in Everyday Life?

Encryption plays a major role in our daily life routines.

Online Shopping

When you purchase online, your payment information is encrypted. This protects your credit card information against hackers.

Messaging Apps

Apps like WhatsApp use encryption to keep your messages private. Only you and the person you are chatting with can read them.

Email Security

Many email services use encryption to protect your emails from being read by others.

What Are the Challenges of Encryption?

Encryption has many benefits, but it also faces challenges.

Key Management

Managing keys securely is a challenge. If some person loses their key, they probably will lose their data.

Performance Issues

Encryption could slow down the systems since it needs processing power for encryption and decryption.

How Can You Stay Safe with Encryption?

You can take some steps to securely use encryption.

Use Strong Passwords

Always use strong passwords for accounts and devices. That will make hacking difficult as it will take time to access.

Keep Software Up-to-Date

Regularly update your software to protect against security vulnerabilities in software.

Use Caution with Public Wi-Fi

If you need to use public Wi-Fi, avoid sensitive transactions unless you can encrypt your internet connection using a VPN.

Ready to Secure Your Data?

Encryption helps protect your personal information from threats. Understanding different methods can help you choose the right one for your needs.

If you want more information or need help securing your data, contact us today!

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Cyber hygiene is super important. It’s like brushing your teeth but for your online life. 

Good cyber habits help keep you safe from hackers on the internet. Let’s check some easy ways to stay safe online in 2025. 

What is Cyber Hygiene?

Cyber hygiene means the care you give to your online stuff. This includes keeping your devices and information clean and safe. Washing your hands stops germs. Good cyber behavior stops digital germs like viruses and hackers.

Why is it Important?

Criminals online always try new tricks to get your info or mess up your gadgets. Good cyber hygiene stops them. It keeps your stuff private and your devices working well.

How Can You Improve Your Passwords?

Passwords are like keys to your online home. You want them to be strong. Here are some tips:

Use Long Passwords

Longer passwords are harder to guess. Try using a sentence. For example, “I love eating pizza on Fridays!” is a good password.

Mix it Up

Use different types of characters. Mix in numbers, symbols, and both big and small letters. “I<3EatingPizza0nFridays!” is even better.

Don’t Reuse Passwords

Use a unique password for each account. If someone steals one, the others stay safe.

Why Should You Update Your Software?

Updating your software is like getting a flu shot. It protects you from new threats. Here’s why it’s important:

Fix Security Holes

Updates usually fix problems in your software. These are holes that bad guys can use to get in. Updating closes these holes.

Get New Features

Updates can also give you new cool stuff. Your apps may work better or do more things.

Set Automatic Updates

Turn on automatic updates when you can. Then you don’t have to remember to do it.

How Does Two-Factor Authentication Work?

Two-factor authentication is like putting two locks on your door. It makes it harder for bad guys to break in. Here’s how it works:

What is 2FA?

2FA needs two things to prove it’s you. Usually, one thing is your password. The second thing might be a code sent to your phone or your fingerprint.

Why Use 2FA?

If someone steals your password, they still can’t get in. They don’t have the second thing. It’s much safer.

Where to Use 2FA

Use 2FA on all your important accounts. These include email, banking, and even social media.

Are You Being Careful on Public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi can be very dangerous. It’s like yelling in a crowded place. Anyone could listen. Here’s how to stay safe:

Using a VPN

A VPN is like a secret tunnel to the internet. It keeps your information private, even on public Wi-Fi.

Avoid Sensitive Tasks

Don’t do banking or shopping on public Wi-Fi. Wait until you’re on a safe network.

Turn Off Auto-Connect

Don’t let your device connect to any Wi-Fi network by itself. It might connect to a fake, bad network.

How To Identify Phishing Scams?

Phishing is when a bad guy tries to trick you into giving away your information. It’s like a fake fisherman trying to catch you. Here’s how to avoid the hook:

Check the Sender

Look closely at who sent the message. Scammers often use names that look real but aren’t.

Don’t Click Suspicious Links

If a link looks weird, don’t click it. Move your mouse over it to see where it really goes.

Be Wary of Urgent Messages

Scammers often say you need to act fast. Real companies rarely do this.

Are You Backing Up Your Data?

Backing up is like making copies of your important papers. If something bad happens, you don’t lose everything. Here’s why it’s important:

Against Ransomware

Ransomware can lock up your files. With backups, you can tell them to go away.

Recover from Accidents

Sometimes we delete things by mistake. Backups let you get them back.

Use the 3-2-1 Rule

Keep 3 copies of your data, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site.

How Often Should You Review Your Privacy Settings?

Your privacy settings are like curtains on your windows. They let you control what others see. Check them often:

Schedule It

Check your privacy settings every few months. Write it down so you don’t forget.

Check All Your Accounts

Don’t forget about old accounts. If you don’t use them, close them.

Limit What You Share

Only share what you need to. The less you share, the safer you are.

Are You Teaching Your Family About Cyber Safety?

Cyber safety is for everyone in your family. It’s like teaching kids to look both ways before crossing the street. Here’s how to spread the knowledge:

Make it Fun

Use games or tell stories to teach about cyber safety. It’s easier to remember that way.

Lead by Example

Show good cyber habits to your family. They learn by watching you.

Talk About Online Experiences

Have open talks about what happens online. That keeps everyone in your house safe.

Want to Level Up Your Cyber Hygiene?

Good cyber hygiene protects you from online bad guys in 2025. Use strong passwords, update your software, and be careful on public Wi-Fi. Watch out for phishing scams. Always back up your data. Check your privacy settings and teach your family about online safety.

Want to know more about staying safe online? We can help! Contact us for more tips on cyber hygiene. Let’s make your online life easier and safer together!

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Threat Exposure Management (TEM) is an important cybersecurity tool. It helps organizations find and fix weak spots in their digital systems. TEM outsmarts hackers before they break into your network.

Importance of TEM

Cyber attacks keep getting worse. Hackers always find new ways to break in. TEM helps businesses spot problems before they become big issues.

TEM allows you to:

• Find weak points in your network
• Fix issues quickly
• Reduce your risk of cyber attacks

How TEM Works

TEM uses special software to scan your entire network. It finds places hackers could attack and helps you fix these weak spots.

Continuous Monitoring

TEM keeps looking all the time. This way, you can find new problems as soon as they appear.

Risk Assessment

TEM finds which weak spots are the most dangerous. This helps you fix the most important ones first.

Main Parts of a TEM Program

Asset Discovery

This finds all devices and software on your network. You can’t protect what you don’t know about!

Vulnerability Scanning

This looks for open weak spots in your system. It’s like checking for unlocked doors in your house.

Threat Intelligence

This teaches about new hacker tricks. It helps you know what to look for.

Remediation Planning

Once you find weak spots, you need a plan to fix them. TEM helps you make good choices on how to patch these spots.

Benefits of TEM for Your Business

Better Security

Finding and fixing weak spots makes your whole system safer.

Cost Savings

Stopping an attack before it happens can save you a lot of money. Cleaning up after cyber attacks costs a lot.

Peace of Mind

With TEM, you know someone watches your system all the time. This can help you worry less about cyber attacks.

What to Look for in a TEM Solution

A good TEM tool should:

• Be easy to use
• Give results right away
• Work well with your other security tools
• Make reports that are easy to understand

Getting Started with TEM

1. Check your current security setup
2. Find a TEM tool that fits your needs
3. Set up the tool and start scanning
4. Make a plan to fix the weak spots you find
5. Keep scanning and improve your security

Enhance Your Cybersecurity

TEM is smart protection that keeps your business safe from cyber-attacks. It finds problems before they become big troubles. 

Want to learn more about how TEM can help your company? Contact us today for help staying safe in the digital world.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Passwords unlock our digital lives. We use them for email, bank accounts, and more. 

Remembering all these passwords is hard. Password managers help us keep our accounts safe and make our lives easier.

What is a Password Manager?

A password manager keeps all your passwords in one place. Think of it as a digital safe for your login information. 

You only need to remember one password, the master password. This master password lets you access all your other passwords.

Types of Password Managers

Password managers come in different forms:

• Apps you download on your phone or computer
• Tools that work in your web browser
• Some offer both options

Password managers encrypt your information strongly. When you save a password, the manager scrambles it. This makes the password unreadable to anyone who tries to steal it.

Why Use a Password Manager?

It Helps You Create Strong Passwords

Most people use weak passwords because they can remember them. But weak passwords are easy for bad guys to guess. Password managers generate long, random passwords that are hard to crack.

It Remembers Your Passwords

With a password manager, you don’t need to memorize many passwords. The tool does this for you. You can use a unique, strong password for each account without forgetting them.

It Keeps Your Passwords Safe

Password managers use high-level security to protect your data. They encrypt your passwords. Even if someone hacks the password manager company, they can’t read your information.

Features of Password Managers

Password Generation

Good password managers can create tough, unique passwords for you. They mix letters, numbers, and symbols to make passwords hard to guess.

Auto-Fill

Many password managers can fill in your login information on websites. This saves time and avoids typos.

Secure Notes

Some password managers let you store other sensitive information too. This can include credit card numbers or important documents.

Password Sharing

Some tools let you share passwords safely with family or coworkers. This helps with joint accounts or team projects.

Are Password Managers Safe?

Password managers are very secure when used correctly. They encrypt your data strongly. This means your password gets scrambled. It’s almost impossible for hackers to unscramble it without the right key.

Nothing is perfect, though. Choose a password manager with a good reputation and regular security checks.

How to Choose a Password Manager

Look for these things when picking a password manager:

Security Features

Find one with strong encryption and two-factor authentication. These features keep your information extra secure.

Ease of Use

The best password manager is one you will use. Find one that’s easy for you to understand and use.

Device Compatibility

Make sure the password manager works on all your devices. This includes your phone, tablet, and computer.

Price

Some password managers are free, while others cost money. Paid ones often offer more features. Research what you want and what you can afford.

Tips for Using a Password Manager Safely

1. Create a strong master password
2. Use two-factor authentication
3. Never share your master password
4. Update your password manager regularly
5. Be careful when using password managers on other people’s computers
6. Always log out when you’re done

What If You Forget Your Master Password?

Forgetting your master password is a big problem. Most password managers don’t store your master password anywhere for security reasons. Some managers offer account recovery options like security questions or a recovery key. Know what to do if you forget your master password.

Can Password Managers Be Hacked?

No system is 100% secure. Password managers can be hacked, but this rarely happens. Good password managers have emergency systems to protect your data if they’re hacked.

The biggest risks often come from user mistakes. Weak master passwords or falling for phishing attacks can put your passwords at risk. Follow good security practices to stay safe.

How Do Password Managers Compare to Browser Password Saving?

Browsers often offer to save your passwords. This is convenient but less secure than a dedicated password manager. Here’s why:

1. Browsers don’t always encrypt saved passwords as strongly
2. They don’t offer as many features
3. They don’t work across all your devices and browsers
4. They’re more vulnerable if someone gets your computer

Are Free Password Managers Enough?

Free password managers can be a good start. They offer basic features to improve your online security. Paid versions often have more features:

• Sync across more devices
• More storage for passwords and other data
• Extra features like secure file storage
• Better customer support

For most users, a free password manager works well. If you need more features or have lots of passwords, you might want a paid version.

What About Built-in Phone Password Managers?

Most smartphones have a built-in password manager. This might be good enough for some users. It’s convenient and works well with your phone. But there are some limits:

• They might not work well on different types of devices
• They have fewer features than standalone password managers
• They might not be as secure as specialized tools

Built-in tools can work for basic password management. For more advanced needs, a standalone password manager is better.

How Do Password Managers Handle Data Breaches?

Good password managers offer features to help with data breaches:

• Warnings if a site you use is compromised 
• Tools to check if your passwords have leaked online
• Easy ways to change many passwords quickly

These features help you act fast if your data is in danger.

Do Password Managers Work Offline?

Many password managers can work offline. They keep an encrypted copy of your passwords on your device. This lets you view them without an internet connection. However, some features might not work offline. For example, you can’t sync new passwords across devices until you go online.

How Often Should You Change Your Passwords?

Experts used to say you should change passwords often. Now, many say strong and unique passwords are enough. You only need to change them when necessary.

Password managers make this easier. They help you create strong passwords and keep track of when you last changed them.

What’s the Future of Password Managers?

Password managers keep improving. Some new trends include:

• Login options without passwords
• Better integration with other security tools
• More use of fingerprints or facial recognition
• Advanced password sharing without showing the actual passwords

As online threats change, password managers will keep evolving to keep us safe.

Secure Your Digital Life Today

Password managers are powerful tools for online security. They make it easy to use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. This greatly reduces your risk of a cyber attack. 

Consider using a password manager today to improve your online security. If you need help choosing or setting up a password manager, ask for help. We’re here to make your digital life safer.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

The Internet of Things is growing day by day. More devices are connecting to the internet. And with that growth comes new security risks.

Let’s look at some new ways to keep your IoT devices safe.

What are the security risks for IoT devices?

IoT devices are vulnerable to many types of threats. Some of the common risks include:

Poor passwords

Most IoT devices have default passwords. Many users do not update them. Thus, this vulnerability makes their lives easy to hack.

Outdated software

Old software is vulnerable due to bugs. These bugs can allow hackers in. Most IoT devices remain unpatched for a pretty long time.

Lack of encryption

Some IoT devices even transmit data without any encryption. Anybody can read the data.

How to enhance security in IoT devices?

There are several ways to make IoT devices more secure. The main solutions are discussed below.

Strong passwords

Always change the default password provided. Use long and complicated passwords. Use different passwords for different devices.

Always update software

Very often, software updates are available for the IoT devices. This closes the security gaps in the software. A few of the devices update themselves.

Encrypt your data

Turn on encryption when it’s an option. This scrambles data so others cannot read it.

What new technologies help with IoT security?

New technologies are making IoT devices much more secure. Here are a few promising options:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI can detect unusual behavior within the devices. In case of any potential attack, it can notify the users. AI learns and improves over time.

Blockchain

Blockchain will make device data tamper-proof. It builds a secure record of every action that has taken place by/to a device.

Edge Computing

This pushes the processing of data closer to the device itself. It reduces the possibility of data interception. 

How Can Companies Improve the Security of IoT?

Organizations can improve IoT network security by:

Developing a Security Policy

Establish regulations relating to the use and security of IoT devices. Ensure that all employees are properly trained on these regulations.

Implement Network Segmentation

Isolate the IoT devices from other networks. In the event of a device breach, it limits the extent of the damage.

• Regular security audits
• Vulnerability checks 
• Quick solutions to problems 

What can consumers do to protect their IoT devices?

For the average user, there are ways to improve their security in IoT devices:

Do your homework before buying

Choose devices from companies that take security seriously. Choose devices with regular updates. 

Secure your home network

Choose a strong Wi-Fi password. Enable network encryption.

Think twice about what you connect

Only connect devices you need. Disconnect devices when not in use.

How will IoT security change in the future?

IoT security will keep changing. Here are a few of the trends to watch:

Stricter regulations

Governments might make new laws around IoT security. This could force businesses to make safer devices.

Built-in security

In the future, IoT devices may be more secure straight out of the box. Examples of this could include automatic encryption.

More user control

Give users more control over device security. Consider user-friendly security dashboards.

Securing Your IoT Devices: Take Action Today

IoT security is necessary; it safeguards data privacy. Take an example from the tips in this article, and make your devices safer. 

Stay tuned for updated security options. If you would like any help with securing your IoT devices, reach out to us. We can guide you to a safer future for IoT.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

When it happens, you feel powerless. You get an email or letter from a business saying someone breached your data. It happens all too often today.

Data breaches happen at banks, online sites like Facebook, and ecommerce stores. Not only that, but governments are also victims. This leaves things like your address, SSN, and credit card details exposed to thieves. 

A business getting hacked is something you have little control over. But you can take important steps afterwards. We’ve outlined the most important things to do below. These steps can help you mitigate the financial losses.

Change Your Passwords

The very first thing you should do is change your passwords. Change the password for the service that sent you the breach notification first. Then, change it for any logins using the same password. 

This is one of the reasons it’s a best practice to use unique logins for every site. Many people get in the habit of using the same password in several places. This leaves more than the single breached login at risk. Use a password manager to help you create strong passwords. You only need to remember one to access all the others.

Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Multifactor authentication can keep accounts secure, even if a hacker stole the password. Enable it for the breached service. Then, ensure you have MFA activated for all other logins, where possible. MFA is also called two-factor authentication or two-step verification.

Common forms of MFA are:

• Text message
• Authentication app
• Security key

Check Your Bank Accounts

If payment card details were breached, check bank accounts. You’ll want to watch these for several weeks for fraudulent charges. Report the breach to your bank to have them issue you a new card, if needed.

Notify your bank about the 3rd party data breach. This can help keep you from being held responsible for fraudulent charges. It’s good to get out ahead of it. Your bank can then help you with appropriate steps to avoid fraud.

Freeze Your Credit

Online criminals will often sell breached personal details. These details can enable someone to take out credit in your name. Contact the three credit agencies. They each have ways to freeze your credit to protect you. You can do this right on their websites.

The three credit agencies are: 

• Equifax
• Experion
• TransUnion

Carefully Review the Breach Notification

It’s important to understand exactly how the data breach may impact you. Review the notice you received. Additionally, look for updates on the company website.

These are the things you should be looking for:

• The type of data exposed (passwords, card numbers, etc.)
• What reparations the company is making (e.g., credit monitoring)
• Any instructions given to secure your account

Regularly check the company’s website. Often, they don’t immediately know how far reaching the breach is. You may check back later and find out other types of sensitive data were exposed.

Get Good Cybersecurity Protections

Make sure you protect your device and network. There are some simple tools you can use to beef up personal device security. These include:

• A good antivirus/anti-malware program
• DNS filtering to block malicious sites
• Email spam filtering for phishing

Another good protection you can use is a VPN. This helps mask your traffic. It is especially helpful if you’re using a public Wi-Fi. VPNs are easy to use. You can use VPNs for both computers and mobile devices.

Be On the Lookout for Phishing Scams

Emails are often exposed in data breaches. This means you may receive an uptick in phishing emails. Phishing is very convincing since criminals have AI at their disposal. Phishing emails often are hard to spot from the real thing.

Stay ultra-aware of any unexpected emails. Follow best practices to avoid becoming a phishing victim:

• Hover over links to see them
• Go to websites directly. Don’t click email or SMS links
• Beware of unknown senders
• Watch for phishing on social media and text messages
• When in doubt, double check through an official source

Make Sure to Update Software & Systems

Hackers often exploit unpatched vulnerabilities. How do you get unpatched vulnerabilities? Most times it’s from failing to keep software updated.

Make sure to update your device operating system. Update all apps or software on your devices. Update firmware for routers and printers. Update firmware for smart devices. 

There are so many updates we need to do with our electronics. Automating your updates is a good way to stay protected.

Managed Security Services You Can Count On

Managed services can keep you protected at work and home. Need help improving device security? We’ll be happy to discuss our options.

Contact us today to schedule a chat about device security.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.