NCC’s A-Z Guide: Consumer Shield Against Cyber Threats
NCC’s A-Z Guide: Consumer Shield Against Cyber Threats
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a comprehensive “A-Z Cyber Safety Tips” initiative aimed at safeguarding telecommunications consumers from the escalating threats in the digital realm.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the NCC’s ongoing commitment to consumer education and awareness, designed to combat the pervasive activities of cybercriminals.
These criminals engage in a variety of illicit actions, including hacking, sophisticated online scams, disruptive malware attacks, and other emerging cyber risks that endanger users’ online identities and data.
The detailed list of tips, presented in an easy-to-follow alphabetical format, provides actionable advice for consumers. For instance, under “E,” the NCC stresses the importance of “Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)” to add a crucial extra layer of security to accounts. “F” advises enabling “Firewall protection” on devices, while “G” urges consumers to “Guard your personal info” by being judicious about sharing sensitive data online.
Security on websites is highlighted with “H” recommending to “Look for ‘https’ in the URL” to ensure a secure connection.
Further down the alphabet, the NCC emphasizes proactive security measures. “I” prompts users to “Install updates” regularly for operating systems, browsers, and software, while “K” highlights the need to “Keep your antivirus software updated” to defend against malware. Users are also advised to “Lock your device” using passwords, PINs, or biometrics (“L”), and to “Monitor your accounts” for any unusual activity (“M”).
The importance of secure networks is underscored in “N” with “Network security,” and “O” focuses on “Online shopping safety,” recommending reputable websites and secure payment methods.
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The outlined tips are listed below:
E- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
F- Firewall protection: Enable firewall protection on your device.
G- Guard your personal info: Be cautious when sharing personal info online.
H- HTTPS: Look for “https” in the URL to ensure a secure connection.
I- Install updates: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and software.
J- Just Say NO: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages.
K- Keep your antivirus software updated: Protect your device from malware.
L- Lock your device: Use a password, PIN, or fingerprint to lock your device.
M- Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your account activity.
N- Network security: Use a secure and private network.
O- Online shopping safety: Use reputable websites and secure payment methods.
P- Password manager: Consider using a password manager.
Q- Question suspicious requests: Be cautious of requests for sensitive information.
R- Report scams: Report suspicious activity to relevant authorities.
S- Secure your Wi-Fi: Use a strong password and WPA2 encryption.
T- Two-Factor Authentication: Use 2FA whenever possible.
U- Update your browser: Regularly update your browser to ensure security patches.
V- Verify sender information: Be cautious of emails or messages from unknown senders.
W- Wi-Fi safety: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
X- X-out suspicious emails: Delete suspicious emails without opening attachments.
Y- You are responsible: Take ownership of your online security.
Z- Zero trust: Be cautious of all online interactions.
The NCC also points to the existence of its dedicated Computer Security Incident Response Team, the NCC-CSIRT, which is instrumental in responding to cyber threats.
The Commission expressed confidence that the widespread adoption of these “A-Z Cyber Safety Tips” will significantly reduce incidents of cybercrime, thereby enhancing the safety and ease of online activities for all telecommunications consumers.
The initiative aims to empower users with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the digital landscape more securely.
