Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and New Zealand is not immune to these risks. According to CERT NZ, in the first quarter of 2024 alone, there were 1,537 reported cyber incidents, with phishing and credential harvesting being the most common.
In today's digital age, nearly everyone is connected to or has access to the internet, making it crucial to stay cyber smart and protect yourself online. As a fibre broadband customer, we want to help you safeguard your online presence so you can recognise the signs of potential threats early.
Here are our tips to help enhance your cybersecurity*
Secure your network: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is secured with a strong password and WPA3 encryption and make sure to change the default admin password of your Wi-Fi router. This helps prevent unauthorised access and helps protect your data from being intercepted.
Keep software up to date: Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and all applications. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.
Use strong, unique passwords: Create strong passwords for all your online accounts and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Wherever possible, enable 2FA for an extra layer of security. This requires a second form of verification, such as a text message code, in addition to your password.
Be wary of phishing scams: Phishing scams come in many forms, but they are designed to trick you into revealing personal information. Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages asking for sensitive information. Verify the sender's identity through official channels before responding, or clicking any links contained in the email.
Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank and online accounts for any suspicious activity. Early detection of unauthorised transactions can help mitigate potential damage.
Educate yourself and your family: Stay informed about the latest cyber threats and educate your family members on safe online practices. Awareness is a crucial defence against cyber-attacks.
How to find out more
CERT NZ offers resources and guidelines to help individuals and businesses stay safe online. For more information and guides, you can visit Own your Online.*
*Please note these tips comprise some ways to get started with keeping yourself safe online and isn't an exhaustive list.