To mark National Computer Security Day, we’re taking a closer look at this commemorative occasion and offering some ideas on how your company can honour this special event, celebrated on November 30th each year.

Read on for more about this important date and a list of useful actions you can take that its creators would applaud.

What is National Computer Security Day?

National Computer Security Day started back in 1988, when computers were becoming a common piece of equipment, if not present in every home just yet. The ‘80s saw increased computer usage at government level and in business, although the internet was still in its infancy.

While viruses and hackers might seem a more modern issue, constantly evolving and increasingly complex technology saw breaches even back in 1988. With computers in government office, banks and businesses, security risks spiked.

The data kept on computers and the servers they connected was often confidential, making it highly prized by hackers leading to high-profile attacks involving leaked information. As the decade came to a close, protecting these devices became ever more vital, leading to the creation of National Computer Security Day to raise awareness of this important issue.

The following are some activities you can introduce at your company, local council, or educational authority:

1. Update your operating system and protective software

What better way to honour the occasion then by upgrading your operating system, anti-malware, anti-spyware, and antivirus software? Failing to update your software and systems to the most up-to-date version leaves your device vulnerable to attacks.

Every update contains important security fixes and patches that resolve known weaknesses, so by installing them as soon as they are made available by their vendors, you can ensure your computer has the best protection possible. Don’t delay and install the latest versions today.

2. Change your password and make it powerful

Ramp up your security with a new and more formidable password. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recommends constructing passwords from three-word combinations that are easy to remember and tough to crack. Additionally, add multi-factor authentication (MFA) for extra protection. Unless hackers have access to your smartphone too, they won’t be able to penetrate your computer.

3. Back up your essential information

Whether you use on-premise, external or cloud-based storage, backing up your devices files will ensure no data loss. Destruction or loss can constitute a data breach, but employing routine backups can ensure your important information remains recoverable.

4. Encrypt the data on your device

Employing encryption software ensure that the data stored on your computer can only be accessed by those with express permission. At Galaxkey, our solution offers cutting-edge three-layer end-to-end encryption approved by the NCSC.

Additionally, our system has zero back doors, and no passwords are ever stored for premium device security.

Why not celebrate National Computer Security Day with a free trial to test drive this powerful protection for yourself? Contact our expert team today for details, or take advantage of an online demonstration before you begin.