With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) launched Shields Up, a campaign designed to help individuals, organizations, and leaders improve their online security. If you’re concerned about cyber threats, consider these tips to reduce your risk and soften the potential impact.
In early 2022, in the face of heightened cyber threats associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) launched its Shields Up campaign.
The Shields Up webpage continues to encourage everybody — including families, organizations, and corporate leaders — to take steps to improve their online security.
Given all this, it makes sense that cyber threats to national security are a growing concern.
According to a 2023 Gallup poll, Americans view cyberterrorism as a "critical threat" to U.S. vital interests. In fact, those surveyed ranked cyberterrorism as the top international concern our country faces today.
The good news is that everybody can help improve our collective online security by keeping up good privacy habits at work and home — and we’re here to help you do just that.
Our number one tip? Adopt a security mindset to stay a step ahead.
What is a cyber threat?
A cyber threat is any activity that can damage computer systems, steal or destroy data, or otherwise disrupt digital systems or transactions.
But where do cyber threats come from?
There’s no easy answer, as there are many types of hackers, cybercriminals, and identity thieves. But in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, CISA has warned about the possibility of increased malicious cyber activity.
Now, you may be wondering: how could a cyber threat impact you? A large-scale cyberattack could disrupt crucial infrastructure, such as the power grid or banking systems. Or, increased state-sponsored hacking could lead to more data breaches — which can lead to identity theft.
To protect yourself, adopt a security mindset
Experts like our own Doug Kaplan, Senior Vice President of Operations at Allstate Identity Protection, advise that by adopting a security mindset, you can help protect yourself and your information from digital threats.
A security mindset is a practice that’s long been used by the cybersecurity community. It starts with cultivating awareness about what scammers are up to, and maintaining a healthy skepticism.
Someone with a security mindset will think very carefully before clicking links, sharing information, or engaging with someone online, for example.
“We always recommend good privacy hygiene,” says Kaplan. “Right now, it feels more important than ever to be vigilant, and take additional steps to protect yourself.”
If you’re an Allstate Identity Protection member, you’ve already made an important move in the right direction. Here are five additional things you can do to strengthen and build upon that security mindset:
Update your login credentials. Create strong passwords. Try a long phrase that makes sense only to you, like “Mom is 83 years old!” Use two-factor authentication when available. And, consider using a password manager, like the one we offer.
Keep software updated. These days, many software updates happen automatically — so be cautious about software update notifications with embedded URLs. Before clicking, hover over the link to see its true destination. Or, visit your device’s Settings or System Preferences page to see if your software truly needs an update.
Be extra vigilant about phishing. According to CISA, more than 90 percent of successful cyberattacks start with a phishing email. Now’s the time to be extra cautious before clicking links in unsolicited messages. It’s common for fraudsters to target victims via phone, too — so avoid providing personal information over text or phone. If you receive a call that claims to be from a trusted institution, such as your bank, hang up and call back directly before sharing any personal information.
Look out for charity scams. Many people want to help Ukraine — and sadly, scammers want to take advantage. If you’re planning to donate, be aware that Ukraine-themed charity scams are on the rise and follow the additional tips below.
Back up your files. It’s smart to save copies of essential documents, such as financial and health records. That way, if an institution you rely on becomes compromised, you’ll have a path to restore your data. Security experts recommend using two backup systems: one on an external hard drive, and another in the cloud.
How to avoid charity scams
If you want to help an organization or country in need, try these tips to be sure your donation gets to the right place.
Do your research to determine that you are donating to a legitimate and established charity. There are several organizations that can help with this, like BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, CharityWatch, and Candid. You can also search for a charity or fundraiser with your state’s charity regulator.
Be wary of unsolicited messages you receive (via email and social media), and verify the identity of the person contacting you.
Never give your SSN or other personal information like bank account information and passwords in response to a charitable solicitation.
“While there’s no way to guarantee that you won’t experience a cyberattack, you do have the power to reduce your risk and potentially soften the impact,” adds Kaplan. “And if fraud does occur, we’ll be here to help restore your identity.”