Data Analytics, System Information
KEEPING DATA SAFE ...Tips to reduce cyber threats
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is when you have two or more proofs of identity to log in. For example, using your username and password, and then entering a code that is sent to you via SMS or Email. MFA puts an extra shield around your account and personal information. Studies from Microsoft show that this reduces the chances of a successful cyber attack by 99.9%. If you have not done so already, we strongly encourage all families to set up MFA for any account that may hold Important Personal Data, Such as Email Services, Online Banking Accounts and Social Media Accounts. Some other forms of MFA are Fingerprint Recognition, Facial Recognition, and Security Questions.
Remember to always Keep Devices Up to date, and to take software updates as soon as they become available, This can greatly reduce the risk of a Cyber attack. According to a blog post by Gallagher Security, "As of September, in 2023 alone there have been over 800 publicly disclosed global security incidents resulting in an estimated 4.5 billion breached records, significantly up from the estimated 31.5 million breached records in 2022. And although the type of attack may vary, there’s one commonality among the statistics: most are a result of legacy (Outdated) hardware and software."
Disable Geolocation Services on your childrens Devices/Apps. Geolocation (commonly referred to as "location") can help you keep track of your children. But, some applications may use or sell location data for commercial purposes. To stay secure, you can disable geolocation for each app in your child's device/app settings. Consider deleting apps where this is not possible. It's best to check apps that your children want to install. Find out what data they collect and turn on relevant security and privacy settings. One very common example of an app that uses geolocation is the social messaging app "Snapchat", which is very popular among children aged 13-24, making up 57.2% (roughly 241.5 million) of the apps total 422 million users globally. Snapchat uses Geolocation to display your location on a world map (referred to as "Snapmaps") to anyone on your friends list, regardless of their age or location in the world. This can be disabled in the apps settings.
Sometimes you might let your children use your smartphone, tablet or computer. Before you do, consider what type of data, apps and websites you have on it. Letting a child use your device without security measures can put your family at risk of a cyber attack. Clear your browser history often to limit access to your accounts and private data. Don't share your passwords and PINs with your children. This ensures they have to ask before they use your device or go online.
Online Gaming has gained unprecedented popularity across all age groups, especially among Millenials (1981 – 1996), Gen Z (1997 - 2012) and Gen Alpha (2013 - Present). To better understand the scale of the gaming industry today, and why it is so important to ensure your child remains safe while using them, know that as of 2022, The global Movie industry Generated roughly $26 Billion in the box office, The global music industry generated roughly $26.2 Billion, and the Gaming industry? That generated a whopping $184.4 Billion, Meaning that in just 40-50 years, The gaming industry has become over 3.5 times larger than the music and movie industries COMBINED. With a scale this size, it is easy to see why it is important to be aware of the potential cybersecurity risks of gaming. When playing online games, children may interact with strangers who have malicious intent. Remind your children not to share personal details with anyone they don't know. Cybercriminals could even be impersonating their friends. It is important they are aware of the risks and know they can tell an adult if a stranger contacts them. Be careful of fishing scams in games. This includes offers of free upgrades, in-game currencies, or rare character items. It's best to check the source before downloading anything. Be aware of your child's online activities. You can turn on Parental controls on gaming devices and apps to restrict your child from being able to contact/be contacted by strangers online.
If your child uses social media, they might have 'friends' or 'followers' they haven't met in real life. Your children might also follow their favourite celebrities or official fan sites. Many official celebrities and entertainment news websites are safe to use. But it is very easy for people to pretend to be someone else on the internet. It is important to help your children navigate the digital world to guarantee their online security.
Sources for further learning:
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-entra-blog/your-pa-word-doesn-t-matter/ba-p/731984
https://security.gallagher.com/en-AU/Blog/Why-software-updates-are-important-for-security
https://www.oberlo.com/statistics/which-age-group-uses-snapchat-the-most
Oliver Fairweather
System Analyst Trainee
oliver.fairweather@smseymour.catholic.edu.au