Can you share one cybersecurity tip that you found particularly helpful in protecting sensitive information? How do you apply this tip in your day-to-day work?

Question

In a world where cybersecurity breaches are increasingly common, employees are the first line of defense. This article distills expert insights into actionable tips to fortify personal and company data. Learn to reinforce security with tried-and-tested strategies that have been endorsed by leading industry professionals.

Chinyelu Karibi-Whyte · Answer

One cybersecurity tip that I've found particularly helpful in protecting sensitive information is using the principle of least privilege (PoLP).
This means giving users, applications, and systems only the minimum level of access they need to perform their tasks. Nothing more. It's one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce security risks and prevent unauthorized access.
I apply this in my day-to-day work by regularly reviewing access controls and permissions to ensure that only the right people have access to sensitive data and systems. I also use role-based access control (RBAC) to limit permissions based on job roles, and I enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all critical accounts to add an extra layer of security.
Another way I apply this is by isolating critical systems and implementing the principle of zero trust, meaning I never assume that any user or device is automatically trustworthy. Every access request is verified before granting permissions.
This approach helps minimize the risk of insider threats, reduces the impact of compromised credentials, and ensures that even if an attacker gains access, their reach is limited. I also make sure to log and monitor all access activities so that any unusual behavior is detected and addressed quickly.
Beyond that, educating teams on security best practices is just as important as enforcing technical controls. When users understand why least privilege matters, they're more likely to follow security policies, avoid risky behaviors, and report potential threats.
Least privilege is not just a security principle; it's a mindset. Applying it consistently strengthens overall security, prevents unnecessary exposure, and ensures that sensitive information stays protected.

Oliver Aleksejuk · Answer

One of the best cybersecurity tips I follow is the idea of giving people and systems only the access they truly need. When too many permissions are handed out, it creates unnecessary risks. If a hacker gains access, they can move around more easily and cause more damage. Keeping access limited adds a strong layer of protection. In my work, I ensure employees, software, and systems only have what's necessary to do their jobs. This way, if something goes wrong, the impact is much smaller. Checking and adjusting permissions regularly helps keep things secure without making daily tasks more difficult.
I put this into practice by reviewing who has access to what and removing anything that's no longer needed. Automated tools help track changes, but I also believe in educating employees on why this matters. When people understand how small security steps make a big difference, they take extra care with their access. Cyber threats are always evolving, but keeping permissions in check is a simple and effective way to stay protected. It's not about making things difficult—it's about making security a natural part of how we work, so we can focus on what matters without unnecessary risks.

Jason Fisch · Answer

One of the most effective cybersecurity tips I live by is "zero trust, always verify." Too often, businesses and individuals assume that something is safe because it's inside their network or from a familiar source. That's exactly how cybercriminals get in--they exploit trust. At Fisch Solutions, we operate under the assumption that no device, user, or system should be trusted by default.
This means using multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all critical systems, segmenting networks so one breach doesn't compromise everything, and constantly monitoring for unusual activity. It also means educating employees on phishing emails and social engineering tactics that hackers use to bypass technical defenses.
Day-to-day, I apply this mindset by questioning every request for sensitive information, whether it's an email from a "colleague" asking for credentials or a vendor requesting access to a system. We verify through secondary channels before approving anything. This approach has stopped real threats in their tracks.
Cybersecurity isn't about one magic solution but layers of defense and vigilance. Assuming an attacker is always trying to get in, you start thinking more critically about security. That mindset shift is what truly keeps data safe.

Bob Gourley · Answer

Experts suggest that the most effective protection is to behave as though you are already compromised. When it comes to cybersecurity, this involves behaving as though hackers are already inside your network and focusing on stopping them from causing damage.
I learned this lesson the hard way. Having worked as the Defense Intelligence Agency's CTO, I saw firsthand how the threats operate. Attackers don't always break the door down; sometimes they creep silently inside and wait. Intelligence work also taught me that the most secure systems are no better than their weakest link. That's why I follow one rule above all others: trust nothing, verify everything.
At OODA LLC, where I am responsible for cybersecurity operations, we operate with a zero-trust policy. Every login is authenticated with multiple factors, with no exceptions. Systems are continuously monitored for anything suspicious. Employees are given access to only what they truly need, because the more doors left open, the sooner someone will be able to get through.
Writing "The Cyber Threat" helped me realize that security isn't just technical; it's a matter of attitude. I tell our employees to stay suspicious. Don't trust an email just because it's there. If something doesn't seem right about the message, ask questions. If a request for access doesn't sound necessary, question it. The moment you think you are safe is the moment you become vulnerable.

Rafay Baloch · Answer

A cybersecurity tip I live by is to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all your accounts and apps. In my experience, MFA is the best current protection we have against theft of our data. It is an extra security barrier that if your password is stolen, the attacker will still not be able to sign in to your account easily. At REDSECLABS, I enforce MFA on all systems, email, cloud services, and even our internal applications. It is a simple measure with a big consequence.
I would further suggest using password managers to create and keep strong, different passwords. Using the same password for different accounts is like leaving the door to your house unlocked. During my daily activities at work, I implement MFA together with encrypted communication tools and routine security checks to counter threats.
As I often say, "Cybersecurity is not a one-time solution; it is a culture."

Jacob Kalvo · Answer

No matter where the data is stored or which company grants access to it, MFA can serve as the best cybersecurity advice for conceiving potent protection against sensitive information. MFA stands for multi-factor authentication. It provides an additional layer of protection by making the user provide two or more verification factors to access an account or a system. These could be something the user knows, such as passwords; something the user has, such as a mobile device or security key; or something the user is, for example, biometric data.
Besides internal processes, our customers should also enforce MFA on their accounts, particularly in scenarios where large datasets are involved or when proxies are used for market research, adding a much-needed layer of protection from unauthorized access. An example is logging into proxies for data scraping or web scraping jobs, where ensuring that MFA is part of the log-in process makes it that much harder for a hacker to compromise that account. To avoid unauthorized access to sensitive data that is of utmost priority to us here at Live Proxies, MFA is one of the strongest options we can offer.

Elmo Taddeo · Answer

One cybersecurity tip I always emphasize is enabling multifactor authentication (MFA). Attackers don't need to "break in" if they can simply log in with stolen credentials. I've seen businesses suffer major breaches because a single compromised password gave hackers full access to sensitive systems. At Parachute, we require MFA across all critical accounts and encourage clients to do the same. It's a simple step that makes it much harder for cybercriminals to succeed.
I apply this in my day-to-day work by making sure MFA is active on every account I use, from email to cloud platforms. I also prefer authenticator apps over text-based codes, since SIM swapping attacks are becoming more common. Anytime I see an unfamiliar login attempt, I report it immediately. It's also important to check with IT teams to ensure MFA can't be disabled without approval.
For businesses, I recommend making MFA mandatory and educating employees on why it matters. Many people think it's just an extra step, but that extra step can prevent costly data breaches. If a service doesn't support MFA, it might be time to reconsider using it. Cybersecurity is all about layers, and MFA is one of the easiest, most effective layers to put in place.

Amit Doshi · Answer

One cybersecurity tip that I've found incredibly valuable is the principle of least privilege. This principle states that not everyone needs access to everything. We apply this principle rigorously by ensuring that team members only have the permissions necessary to perform their specific roles. This approach minimizes the risk of accidental leaks or malicious breaches.
In day-to-day operations, implementing the principle of least privilege means regularly reviewing access controls, using role-based permissions, and implementing multi-factor authentication across the board. It's not just about locking doors—it's about making sure only the right people have the keys. While cyber threats continue to evolve, disciplined access management remains a powerful first line of defense.

Steve Payerle · Answer

One cybersecurity tip that has been particularly impactful for us at Next Level Technologies is the proactive approach to regular software updates and patch management. This strategy is about more than just ensuring operating systems are up to date; it involves a routine update schedule for all software applications, including web browsers and office suites. The majority of security breaches exploit outdated software, so staying current is crucial in safeguarding against vulnerabilities.
In our day-to-day operations, we have implemented automatic update configurations where possible and manual audits to ensure compliance across all systems. For example, when managing IT infrastructures for clients in regulated industries like finance or healthcare, we have observed significant risk reduction simply by maintaining up-to-date systems. This practice has not only protected sensitive data but also prevented potential reputational damage stemming from cybersecurity incidents.
For any business looking to improve its cybersecurity posture, I recommend prioritizing software updates as a first line of defense. This simple yet effective measure can prevent many common threats and contributes to a resilient IT environment, allowing businesses to focus on growth without constant cybersecurity concerns.

Bill Mann · Answer

Encrypted messaging is crucial, especially for those who use secured email or set up their own servers. There's been a significant shift away from email toward various communication platforms such as Slack. Visually, they're more appealing, but in reality, they don't necessarily improve workflows and are often less secure. However, there is a compromise.
We use Signal for all urgent work communications because it is end-to-end encrypted, and the only data stored on their servers are the users' phone numbers. This makes Signal a non-target for breaches. So, if you're looking for a secure messaging service with more urgency than email, consider setting up Signal.

Ryan Carter · Answer

In my experience at NetSharx Technology Partners, a powerful cybersecurity strategy has been the integration of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services. This approach drastically improves our ability to identify and respond to threats swiftly. By using MDR, we've managed to reduce our mean time to contain threats to just 15 minutes, significantly decreasing potential damage.
A standout example involved a client facing persistent DDoS attacks. With MDR service, we not only managed to mitigate those attacks swiftly but also reduced their security costs by over 80%. This proactive approach helped maintain their system's integrity without the need for an expensive 24/7 security operation center.
Applying MDR in day-to-day work ensures we're continuously monitoring for threats across networks, endpoints, and the cloud, and responding in real-time. This has given us an edge in maintaining robust security postures without overstretching resources, proving invaluable in protecting sensitive information.

John Russo · Answer

At OSP Labs, cybersecurity isn't just a checklist--it's a core principle woven into everything we do. One of the most invaluable practices we've implemented is Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), a security model that shifts away from outdated assumptions of trust. Instead of believing that anything inside our network is inherently safe, we adopt a "never trust, always verify" approach, ensuring that every user, device, and application--whether inside or outside the perimeter--is continuously authenticated and monitored.
This philosophy is deeply embedded in our day-to-day operations. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is enforced across all critical systems, preventing unauthorized access even if credentials are compromised. We implement least privilege access, meaning employees and developers only have access to the exact resources they need to perform their roles--nothing more, nothing less. This approach significantly reduces the attack surface and mitigates risks from insider threats or credential misuse.
For example, when developing custom healthcare software, we ensure that our developers, testers, and analysts are granted access only to the specific environments or datasets necessary for their tasks. This segmented access control prevents accidental data exposure and minimizes potential security breaches. Additionally, real-time monitoring and anomaly detection help us identify suspicious behavior early, allowing us to act before any real damage occurs.
By integrating Zero Trust principles, we've strengthened our security posture, safeguarding sensitive Protected Health Information (PHI) and Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Our biggest takeaway? Trust is a vulnerability. The best way to protect your data is to verify everything, every time--no exceptions.

Brad Besner SCK · Answer

One cybersecurity tip I find particularly effective is implementing a comprehensive access control strategy. At Security Camera King, managing access to sensitive areas is crucial, and we practice what we preach by using our own advanced access control systems. These systems not only restrict unauthorized entry but also log access data, which helps in monitoring and auditing.
A specific example of this is how we use biometric scanners to ensure that only authorized personnel can enter sensitive work areas. This method adds an extra layer of security because, unlike passwords or key cards, biometric data is difficult to forge or share. This practice has vastly improved our ability to secure high-risk spaces.
I encourage others to assess their access control measures and consider upgrading to more sophisticated, biometric-based systems. Not only does this improve physical security, but it also acts as a deterrent against potential breaches, providing a comprehensive barrier to unauthorized access.

Steve Fleurant · Answer

One of the most impactful cybersecurity strategies, often overlooked, is the principle of least privilege (PoLP). Simply put, it suggests that you should only grant users, whether human or applications and processes, the absolute minimum access rights (permissions) necessary to perform their legitimate tasks. Nobody should have carte blanche access across your entire system. It's neither very smart nor secure.
How does this translate into enhanced security? If a malicious actor gains access to a user's account - perhaps through a phishing attack or a compromised password - the damage they can inflict is directly proportional to the account's level of access. If that account has access to the organization's email, calendars, confidential documents, and all databases, the attacker essentially has the keys to the whole business kingdom. They can steal customer data, proprietary information, install ransomware, delete critical files, and disrupt every facet of operations.
However, if that same compromised account operates under the principle of least privilege, the potential damage is significantly contained. That user only needed access to a specific project folder and one database. The attacker's options are, therefore, drastically reduced. They might be able to see some project timelines, but they can't access the organization's financial records or customer personal information. This limits the blast radius of any potential security incident.
Implementing the PoLP isn't about distrusting your team. It's about recognizing that even the most vigilant individuals can make mistakes. A well-meaning employee could accidentally click on a malicious link, or a vendor's system could be compromised, leading to a ripple effect. The PoLP is a proactive security layer, not a judgment on individual trustworthiness.
How can organizations be more mindful of PoLP? A regular audit of user access is essential, as roles can change and responsibilities evolve. It's important to adjust permissions. Think of it as an ongoing process rather than a one-time action.
A simple action such as using separate accounts for administrative tasks should exist. The account users use daily to check their emails should not be the same account with escalated privileges that installs applications on their computer. This reduces accidental changes to critical systems. In a world where cyber threats constantly evolve, applying foundational principles such as least privilege is essential.

Shehar Yar · Answer

One cybersecurity tip I've found particularly effective is enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) on every account that accesses sensitive information. MFA adds an extra layer of security, so even if a password is compromised, unauthorized access is much harder to achieve. In my day-to-day work, I ensure that all critical systems, cloud services, and even personal email accounts are secured with MFA, significantly reducing the risk of a breach.
This practice has become a standard within my team as well--we conduct regular training sessions to help everyone understand its importance and to troubleshoot setup challenges. By making MFA a non-negotiable part of our security protocol, we bolster our defense against phishing and other cyber threats, ensuring our sensitive information remains well-protected.

Senthil K · Answer

One cybersecurity tip that I found particularly helpful in protecting sensitive information is using multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all critical accounts. It adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password, making it significantly harder for attackers to gain unauthorized access. In my day-to-day work, I apply this by enabling MFA on email, cloud services, and financial systems. I prefer using an authenticator app instead of SMS-based authentication since SMS can be intercepted. Additionally, I regularly monitor login attempts and security alerts to detect any suspicious activity. This practice has greatly enhanced the security of my accounts and reduced the risk of data breaches.

Top 16 Cybersecurity Tips for Employees

Table of Contents

Top 16 Cybersecurity Tips for Employees

Use Principle Of Least Privilege

Limit Access To Reduce Risks

Zero Trust, Always Verify

Trust Nothing, Verify Everything

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

Enforce MFA For Extra Security

Require MFA Across All Accounts

Apply Principle Of Least Privilege

Prioritize Regular Software Updates

Use Signal For Secure Messaging

Integrate Managed Detection And Response

Adopt Zero Trust Architecture

Implement Comprehensive Access Control

Grant Minimum Access Rights

Enable MFA On All Accounts

Use MFA For Critical Accounts

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