KnowBe4 Security Tip of the Month: Become a Human Firewall

A human firewall represents the protective layer you establish by adhering to security protocols. Strengthening this defense can significantly reduce your organization’s vulnerability to cyber threats.

Create Strong Passwords

• Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
• Avoid simple words, family names, or easily guessable numeric sequences
• Target passwords of at least 16 characters in length
• Use unique passphrases that are difficult to guess (example: “100OrangeFishFlewInTheGreenSky”)
• Never share passwords with anyone

Carefully Analyze All Emails You Receive

• Refrain from clicking links or opening attachments in unexpected messages
• Contact senders through alternative communication methods to verify legitimacy
• Report potentially dangerous emails from unrecognized sources
• Hover over links to preview their destination URLs
• Scrutinize sender email addresses — cybercriminals can spoof legitimate domains

Report Suspicious Computer Behavior

If you see suspicious computer behavior, report it to ITS immediately. Reporting unusual activity helps safeguard organizational security against criminal actors.

Want to test your team’s phishing awareness? Contact us to learn about our security awareness training programs.