Cybersecurity: How safe are you?

Swiss security researcher Dominique Bongard has said many popular routers’ computer chips use a “random number generator” intended to safeguard your password – but it turns out those “random” numbers aren’t as random as they’re supposed to be.
Some are so poorly programmed that a hacker can easily determine the next numbers that the router will spit out.
Companies can’t keep your data safe. It’s that simple. When Target lost data on some 110 million customers, it recommended
them to credit bureau Experian for “identity theft protection,” offering to cover the cost for a year.
Think you’re in better hands? Think again.
Simple tips to avoid getting hacked
There’s probably no way to completely avoid being hacked, but fortunately, there are a number of simple things you can do right now to better protect yourself against hackers and unwanted surveillance. Here are a few:
– Be diligent with software updates: Another no-brainer. When companies discover vulnerabilities in their software that hackers can exploit, they send out security patches to solve the problem that appear in the form of pop-ups or download prompts. It’s definitely an annoyance to have to interrupt your work to download new software and restart your computer. But when the alternative could be getting hacked, it’s a small price to pay.
– Two-factor authentication: Services like Facebook, Twitter and Google’s Gmail offer a feature known as two-factor authentication, which works with your smartphone to add an extra layer of security when you’re logging in. After you’ve entered your password, you’re prompted to enter a numeric code that’s sent to your phone via text message or generated by a mobile app. That way even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to get into your account unless they also have your phone as well.
– Protect your email: Securing your email requires more technical know-how, but it’s possible using a tool known as GPG. Windows users can find a free download and instructions on setting up GPG. Getting GPG up and running can be a challenge if you’re not ultra-tech savvy, but fortunately, the process of encrypting email should soon become easier. That’s because Google is currently testing a new Chrome extension that it says “will make it quicker and easier for people to get that extra layer of security should they need it.”
Source: CNN, Flip board