Cyber-compliance might sound like a big business issue, but it’s really anything but! How much have you heard about cyber-compliance? How well do you know the status of your own personal cyber-compliance? And do you even know why it matters so much?

It’s not just about what regulations protect your private data, but also how much is secured under the law, and what will happen if that confidential information is ever exposed unlawfully.

Consider it: Most businesses store your data, like email addresses, full names, shopping habits, and even financial information. Compliance ensures that all of these companies protect your private data with physical and digital safeguards. Data breaches aren’t just scary or frustrating because of possible identity or financial theft.

Cyber incidents also take up a lot of time and energy. They often lead to fines and lawsuits, ensuing legal fees, and plenty of your time. If you could guarantee that you only do business with reputable companies that take your data’s privacy very seriously, then you can be much more comfortable entrusting your personal and financial information with them. In other words? Their compliance is critical to your internet protection.

So, maybe you aren’t the CEO or owner…but you still affect its overall cyber-compliance! YOU could be held liable for intentional negligence and failure to abide by compliance regulations. Abiding by regulations will help you avoid legal, reputational, and financial headaches. Data management requires transparent, trustworthy, and strategic solutions.

Cyber-compliance isn’t just about following rules – it’s about protecting you and your data in the digital world!

Understanding Phishing and Other Scams

Then there’s vishing, or voice phishing, which occurs over the phone. You might be familiar with the nonstop robocalls that you get near election season and tax day; a lot of those are scammers trying to get your personal information. Fake checks are also a problem. Scammers might send you a check for more than the agreed amount, asking you to return the difference. Then the initial check bounces, leaving you out of the money you “returned.”

The same scam has moved to Venmo, where someone links a stolen credit card and sends you money, then reaches out claiming it was a mistake. They ask you to send the money back to their Venmo. Once the credit card owner disputes the stolen charge, Venmo takes that amount out of your account…but the thief has already run off with the money you sent them.

Remember to remain skeptical! If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid suspicious links from unknown senders, and keep your software updated to protect yourself against zero-day attacks. Finally, use complex, unique passwords for all your accounts and enable two-factor authentication when available! Staying cybersecure is a daily effort that keeps all of us protected.