Strengthen Your File Security & Cyber Awareness
As cyber threats continue to grow more complex, securing how we store, manage, and share data is critical. This month’s bulletin dives deep into three key topics: how to ensure safe file storage and transfers, understanding the risks and benefits of password managers, and identifying the top cyber threats to watch in 2025. Whether you’re a business leader or an everyday user, taking proactive steps now can prevent serious problems down the road.
Secure File Storage and Transfers
Why Secure File Storage Matters
In today's digital world, nearly every file—whether it’s a personal document, customer record, financial statement, or contract—holds value. Without secure storage, sensitive data can easily fall into the wrong hands, resulting in identity theft, privacy breaches, or financial loss. Safe storage protects against both accidental access and intentional attacks.
Types of Secure Storage Methods
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Cloud Storage: Services like OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox offer secure, encrypted cloud environments accessible from anywhere.
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External Hard Drives: A physical storage option that stays offline, providing security from online threats.
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Encrypted USB Drives: These provide portable access with built-in encryption to ensure only authorised access.
Best Practices for Securing Stored Files:
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where available to add an extra security layer.
Encrypt files before uploading or storing, so only approved users can access the content.
Keep all related software and systems up to date to fix any known vulnerabilities.
Secure File Transfer: What to Know
When you share files—internally or externally—security must remain a priority. Using unsecured methods like standard email or shared drives with weak settings can open your organisation up to threats.
Recommended Secure Transfer Methods:
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SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) for encrypted server-to-server transfers.
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VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) for safe transmission of files across private networks.
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Encrypted Email Attachments using tools like Outlook’s encryption or third-party plugins.
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Secure File-Sharing Platforms with password protection, expiry links, and audit logs.
Tips for Safer File Transfers:
Always encrypt important documents before sending.
Share access credentials via a separate method (e.g., phone or SMS).
Confirm the recipient’s identity before providing access.
Use tools that log access and send alerts for suspicious activity.
Password managers have become essential tools in today’s digital-first world. They help individuals and businesses store complex, unique passwords across multiple platforms. However, some people remain cautious—are password managers completely safe?
The answer lies in how you use them. While no tool is invincible, a properly set-up password manager is far safer than reusing or writing down passwords.
Can Password Managers Be Hacked?
How to Protect Your Password Manager:
Choose a strong, unique master password that is difficult to guess.
Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to stop attackers even if the password is compromised.
Keep the app updated with the latest security patches.
Avoid using browser autofill unless your password manager encrypts the data.
What If It Gets Breached?
Although rare, password manager breaches have happened. In the event of a breach:
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Immediately change your master password.
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Identify and reset passwords for high-priority accounts (banking, email, work portals).
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Monitor activity across accounts and look for alerts from your password manager provider.
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If needed, consider switching to a new password manager.
Are Password Managers Still Worth It?
Yes. The risks of weak, reused, or poorly stored passwords far outweigh the minimal risks associated with using a password manager. Tools like 1Password, Dashlane, and Bitwarden offer strong encryption and security features.
Using a reputable provider and following good practices dramatically improves your account security and reduces the chance of falling victim to credential-based attacks.
The Most Common Cyber Threats of 2025
Cybercrime is growing in sophistication. Attackers are leveraging new technologies, exploiting human error, and targeting vulnerable systems. These are the most prominent cyber threats to watch out for this year:
Phishing
Phishing remains a top method for stealing login credentials and personal data. Emails often mimic trusted brands or colleagues and trick users into clicking malicious links.
Protection Tips:
Verify email senders and URLs before clicking.
Use email filters and anti-phishing tools.
Educate staff with regular training and real-world phishing simulations.
Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts your data and demands payment to restore access. Attackers now often threaten to leak data if you don’t pay quickly.
Prevention Measures:
Back up critical data frequently and store backups securely.
Keep all operating systems and applications patched.
Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools.
Malware & Trojans
Malware can steal data, spy on users, or compromise systems silently. It often arrives via attachments, downloads, or compromised software.
Best Practices:
Use updated antivirus/anti-malware software.
Disable macros in documents from untrusted senders.
Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools.
AI-Enhanced Attacks
AI is increasingly being used by cybercriminals to craft believable phishing content, automate attacks, and bypass traditional security measures.
How to Stay Ahead:
Stay updated on emerging threats.
Use behavioural detection tools.
Don’t rely solely on traditional filtering—educate users to spot new attack patterns.
IoT Vulnerabilities
From smart speakers to connected printers, Internet of Things (IoT) devices often lack adequate security.
Mitigation Steps:
Change default usernames and passwords.
Segment IoT devices on a separate network.
Disable unnecessary features and update firmware regularly.
Recent Vulnerabilities
Keeping software and hardware updated is critical for protecting against the latest threats. Here are some recent security vulnerabilities you should be aware of:
Apple Patches Two Actively Exploited iOS Flaws – Apple has released updates fixing two actively exploited vulnerabilities in iOS. Users should update their devices immediately.
Critical WhatsApp Flaw – A newly discovered flaw allows remote code execution via file attachments. It is crucial to update your WhatsApp application as soon as possible.
Critical WinRAR Vulnerability Fixed – A critical vulnerability has been patched in WinRAR. Update to the latest version immediately to avoid exploitation.
SonicWall Firmware Update – SonicWall will release new firmware for SonicOS GEN7 and TZ80 on April 24, 2025, to address a high severity vulnerability.
We are actively applying firmware updates for our partners with supported SonicWall devices who are under a valid cover. If you have any questions or wish to confirm your device’s protection status, please get in touch with our service team.
Final Thoughts
As the cyber landscape continues to evolve, so must your strategy. A layered approach to security—including secure storage, password protection, employee training, and device monitoring—can significantly reduce your exposure to risk.
Whether you’re reviewing current security tools or looking for expert guidance on best practices, we’re here to help.
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