1. Introduction

Cyber hygiene refers to a set of practices and habits that individuals and organizations adopt to maintain the health and security of their digital systems and data. It is similar to personal hygiene but focused on the digital world ensuring safety, resilience, and protection from cyber threats.

Good cyber hygiene is essential in today’s digital era, where awareness, responsibility, and proactive defense are trending topics in cybersecurity.

2. Current Challenges

1. Complexity of Passwords – Difficulties in creating and remembering strong, unique passwords.
2. Weak Passwords – Reusing or using simple, guessable passwords.
3. 2FA Limitations – Many users still care properly about enabling Two-Factor Authentication.
4. Awareness Gap – Lack of understanding about threats and security practices.

3. Importance of Cyber Hygiene

1. Update Software & Use Strong Passwords – Reduces vulnerability to exploits.
2. Protect & Hide Sensitive Data – Prevents unauthorized access and data leaks.
3. Maintain Devices & Networks
   • Run anti-virus scans.
   • Regularly restart devices.
   • Terminate suspicious or backdoor sessions.
4. Trust & Reputation – Protects individual and organizational credibility.
5. Reduce Financial Loss – Minimizes risks of fraud, scams, and cybercrime.
6. Support Safe Online Practices – Use VPNs to secure online activity.

4. Common Cyber Hygiene Practices

• Create strong, unique passwords.