Informationssicherheit

Guide to secure handling of IT

Basics and practical tips

Introduction

In today's working world, information technology (IT) is omnipresent and it is essential to use it safely. IT enables us to work efficiently, communicate quickly and access an immense knowledge base. However, the benefits of IT also come with risks. Cyberattacks, data loss and data breaches can cause serious damage to companies and individuals.

This article is aimed at all users and offers practical tips and advice on how to use IT securely, protect your data and protect yourself from cyber attacks. We cover the most important aspects of IT security, from basic rules of conduct to advanced protection measures.

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IT security basics

Passwords

  • Strong
  • Unique

  • Store safely

Software

  • Keep up to date
  • Only from trustworthy sources
  • Regular scans

Phishing

  • Be careful with e-mails
  • Check links
  • No personal data

Passwords are the first line of defense against unauthorized access. Use strong passwords that are at least 12 characters long and contain a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters. Use a unique password for each service so that if one service is compromised, all others are not at risk. You should therefore store your passwords securely, ideally using a password manager.

 

Always keep your software up to date to close security gaps. Only download software from trustworthy sources to avoid malware. Carry out regular scans with an antivirus program to detect threats at an early stage.

Be careful with e-mails from unknown senders, especially if they contain urgent requests for action. Check links in e-mails carefully before clicking on them. Never disclose personal data via e-mail or unencrypted websites.

Safety measures in detail

  • Updates: Activate automatic updates for your operating system and all applications.
  • Firewall: Make sure that your firewall is activated.
  • Backups: Create regular backups of your important data and store them in a safe place.
  • Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data, both on your computer and on external storage media.
  • BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): If you use your own device for work, make sure it complies with your company's security policies.

Rules of conduct for the safe handling of IT

  • Report security incidents: Report suspicious activities or security incidents immediately to the responsible office.
  • Observe data protection: Observe the data protection regulations and handle personal data with care.
  • Safe use of social media: Be careful what information you disclose on social media.

Summary

This article provides an introduction to the basics of secure IT handling. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of security incidents and protect your data. Remember that IT security is an ongoing process that requires constant attention. Customize this policy to your specific needs and stay up to date on current threats and security measures.