Simple cybersecurity: how to defend yourself from hackers, scams and attacks

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Cybersecurity is often less cinematic than people imagine. Many attacks start from weak passwords, fake emails, outdated software or missing backups.

Password and access

Use long, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

Updates and backups

Keep systems, websites, plugins and apps updated. A clean backup can turn a disaster into a recoverable problem.

If a message creates urgency and asks for passwords, money or sensitive data, stop and verify through an official channel.

For web security, see OWASP Top 10. For small organizations, CISA Cyber Essentials and NIST Cybersecurity Basics are useful starting points.

Keywords: cybersecurity, hacker, phishing, password, backup, OWASP, CISA, NIST.