Did you know the average household owns 17 internet-connected devices? [1]
From smart TVs to voice assistants, smart devices make our lives easier and more comfortable, but they also open up more ways for cybercriminals to enter our homes. Now more than ever, keeping yourself informed and safe when using the internet and internet-connected devices is essential.
Top tips for staying safe online at home
Start by making a list of all the internet-connected devices in your home, including PCs, laptops, tablets, mobiles, your Wi-Fi router/modem, smart TV, whitegoods, security cameras, heating and cooling systems, any wearables (like smartwatches or Fitbits), gaming consoles, speakers, baby monitors and children’s toys.
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
- Update your software
- Have antivirus installed
- Be careful of the information you share online that can easily identify you and be used against you
- Never click on suspicious links.
Strong passwords
A good rule of thumb for passwords is – the longer the stronger! Consider a password that contains:
- at least 8 characters (14 characters is even better!)
- at least one upper case
- one lowercase
- one numeric
- one special character (not the % sign).
When you set up a password you should avoid using details that can easily identify you – such as your own date of birth, street number, age, name etc. These are too easy to guess.
Passphrases
A passphrase is similar to a password but is often more difficult to break as it is a sentence that is unique to you but easy to remember. It is generally longer and more complex than a password and ideally contains an uppercase, symbols and punctuation.
An example of a passphrase might be your favourite meal or activity:
- OnfridaysIorderfishnchip5
- NeverStartTheDayWithoutACoff33
- Weplays0ccer0naSaturday!
Keeping our client data safe
At Wahlstrom Financial Services, we are advocates of strong cybersecurity and are continually undertaking stringent measures to ensure the online safety of both our firm and our clients.
Protecting your personal information will always be a priority for us, and we will continue to make it easier, and safer, for you to work with us. If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with us.
If you would like to know more, feel that you or anyone you know requires advice, or would simply like a review of your financial situation, please visit our contact page call our office today to arrange an appointment on (07) 5574 0667.
We encourage all of our clients and colleagues to Like and Follow us on Facebook as we will be posting exclusive content including business updates throughout 2020.
[1] Telsyte Australian IoT @ Home Market Study 2018
Note: This communication (including taxation) is general advice only and does not consider your personal circumstances. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your individual needs, and not act on any information without obtaining professional financial advice specific to your circumstances. This communication including any attachments is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed. Any unauthorised use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this communication including any attachments is prohibited. It is your responsibility to scan this communication including any file attachment for viruses and other defects. To the extent permitted by law, we will not be liable for any loss or damage arising in any way from this communication including file attachments.
Disclaimer
The information has been given in good faith and has been prepared based on information that is believed to be accurate and reliable at the time of publication. The information is general in nature and does not take into account your particular financial needs, circumstances and objectives.
