Cybersecurity Awareness Month Underway 

The Covid-19 Pandemic has contributed to an increase in online traffic.  As a result of a more target rich environment, some industry reports indicate at 158% increase in ransomware attacks in North America alone in 2020 with 95% of all cyberattacks being the result of human error or otherwise preventable.

According to Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves, guidelines to help reduce the likelihood of a cyber-attack are:

• Using a password manager with a long and complex phrase
• Utilize multi-factor authentication
• Understand how to recognize phishing emails (and not click or open embedded links from a source you aren't 100% confident is legitimate)
• Use a secure Internet connection and WiFi network
• Limit personal information you share online
• Keep software applications and operating systems up-to-date
• Use antivirus solutions, malware and firewalls to block threats
• Shut down your desktop computer when you aren't using it

"These are just some fairly easy ways everyone can help safeguard themselves online.  With the constant attempts by criminals to obtain personal information from citizens, corporations and organizations around the world, it's important - now maybe more than ever - to take measures to ensure you're protected," according to Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves.