Adrian Johnson
TLDR: Safer Internet Day 2024 focuses on keeping children safe online and addresses the social and mental aspects of internet safety. Experts emphasize the importance of individual security, password hygiene, and email hygiene to protect against cyber threats. They also discuss the role of technology in advancing cybercriminal tactics and recommend strategies for organizations to improve cybersecurity. Best practices for internet safety include staying informed about phishing scams, being cautious with downloads, keeping software updated, and looking for HTTPS encryption.
Internet safety is a social and mental issue as much as it is technological. Safer Internet Day was created in 2004 to address these challenges and spread awareness of what is one of the most indispensable aspects of being online. This year’s theme, “Together for a Better Internet,” focuses on building on the European Union’s Better Internet for Kids strategy. Safer Internet Day aims to create a positive internet experience that empowers users, connects communities, and facilitates support.
Gopi Ramamoorthy: Individual Security
Individual security is important in internet safety. Ramamoorthy recommends a zero trust principle and least information sharing approach for end users. Selecting the right browser, checking internal URLs, and using the appropriate security and privacy settings are key steps in staying safe online. He also advises using online security awareness events and following best practices to protect children’s online privacy.
Darren Guccione: Cyber Threats
Guccione emphasizes that organizations face a barrage of cyber threats and need to have an advanced defense mechanism and basic best practices to mitigate risks. He recommends leveraging strong, unique passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication. Exercising caution with email attachments and using a privileged access management (PAM) solution are also important for preventing cyber attacks.
Patrick Harr: Advancements in Tech
Harr highlights how cybercriminals abuse new innovations in technology. He uses the example of QR codes, which have become widely used but are also exploited by cybercriminals for phishing attacks. He advises users to be cautious when scanning QR codes and recommends security solutions that can block malicious codes.
John Gallagher: Enterprise Security
Gallagher believes that security should be an organization-wide effort and suggests making non-IT teams accountable for security. He recommends relying on automation for password rotations, firmware patching, and certificate management. Extending security audits to all systems within an organization and implementing reviews of external systems can also help prevent cyber incidents.
Manu Singh: Internet Safety Best Practices
Singh underscores the importance of strong and unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and staying informed about phishing scams. He advises caution with downloads and recommends keeping software and operating systems updated. He also suggests looking for HTTPS encryption when visiting websites.
Overall, experts emphasize the need for individuals and organizations to prioritize internet safety and take proactive measures to protect themselves against cyber threats. By following best practices and staying informed, users can ensure a safer internet experience.
