It’s a brave new world out there, folks. You know things are getting scary when someone on the other side of the planet can get your vital information with just a few keystrokes.
That’s why it was both frightening and comforting to have Jim Angleton on the show recently. He’s the CEO of Aegis FS, which among other services provides online security consultation for businesses.
Angleton had some great cyber security tips for us. While Windows 10 and the new iOS 9 have some pretty good security features, he said, the bottom line is that hackers of all stripes are constantly probing for weaknesses in server systems – and finding them.
And when they steal information, it goes up for sale on the “dark web” – where anybody can buy it and start looking for ways to impersonate you or invade your accounts.
For individuals, Angleton recommends:
– Keep your malware protection up-to-date.
– Keep a PIN of at least 16 characters.
– Watch your accounts every day.
“What we suggest is be vigilant, be safe, and watch your back,” he said.
For businesses, Aegis has a Social Media Reconnaissance Department to aid in fighting disinformation campaigns or warn about forthcoming hacking attempts.
Also, their Compliance Department makes sure the servers are secured and malware protection software is up to date.
It’s the “dark web” where all of the nefarious stuff happens. It’s where hackers buy your information and then start “dialing you up,” Angleton said, probing for validation of their data.
For example, if you get a call and you don’t recognize the number, don’t answer it, he said. It could be somebody testing the number.
And if you get a crazy-looking e-mail, don’t open the attachment. It will have a virus that gives an attacker power to change your computer’s password and then charge you ransom to get it back, Angleton said.
Change the password for your car’s satellite system and related accounts every month, he added. Whenever you plug your smartphone into the car’s system, it’s obtaining all of your data, so it’s vulnerable.
“We’re out there for the big guy and the little guy. We just don’t want you to get hurt,” Angleton said.
We covered a lot more territory, so click here to listen to the full interview with Jim Angleton, CEO of Aegis FS. I promise it’s worth your time.
