Contents:

Start with the key concepts below and work your way through the list to see how ideas and facts connect to make your life safer, both online and offline.

Cyber Security Guide – Learn Everything You Need to Stay Safe Online

4.2 billion

records exposed in data breaches in 2016

2016 DATA BREACH QUICKVIEW REPORT

15.4 Million

identity fraud victims in the US in 2016

2017 IDENTITY FRAUD STUDY

638 million

ransomware attacks on large & small businesses in 2016

SONICWALL 2017 ANNUAL THREAT REPORT

$679

the average ransom demand in April 2016

ISTR INSIGHTS SPECIAL REPORT: RANSOMWARE AND BUSINESS 2016

65%

records exposed in data breaches in 2016

CISCO ANNUAL CYBERSECURITY REPORT 2017

How do these numbers impact your daily life?

Here’s how this collection of cyber security resources can help you:

Get clear and useful definitions for key concepts

Explore truly practical guides on Internet safety

Almost 100 essential cyber security topics covered

Increase your knowledge and skills

Practice what cyber security experts preach

Enjoy a safer digital life!

CYBER SECURITY CONCEPTS

Cyber security is one of those fields with a strong jargon that can be intimidating at first.

But it doesn’t have to be this way

Just as any other discipline, it has layers of complexity, which means you don’t need to dig deep if you’re not a technical person. You can just use the information that’s relevant and useful for you.

Start with the key concepts below and work your way through the list to see how ideas and facts connect to make your life safer, both online and offline.

WHAT IS CYBER SECURITY?

Go beyond the buzzword and explore the textbook definition to understand what this field of activity is all about.

CYBER SECURITY BREACHES

Confidential data spills have become common occurrence, but you may not realize how big the issue is until you see it. This interactive chart will help you visualize the world’s biggest data breaches.

COMPUTER EMERGENCY READINESS/RESPONSE TEAM

Who are the people behind the acronyms? Find out what these teams do and why their works helps keep all of us safe.

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

This article explains why cyber attacks on critical infrastructure are ominous and why experts worry about them.

CSIRT

Another acronym, another team of good guys who fight against cyber crime and help those in need. Learn more about them!

CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS

Technology may be commonplace, but basic cyber security knowledge isn’t. That’s why awareness is a central concern for experts in the industry and beyond.

CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS MONTH

Each October, we have the chance to take a closer look at our digital lives and evaluate how protected (or not) we are.

CYBER SECURITY INSURANCE

It is a trend? Do you need it too? These key facts will help you better understand this new type of insurance.

DATA LEAKAGE

You’ve heard about, but how does it actually happen? This is your chance to find out. Protection advice included!

EXPLOIT KIT

These bits of code can wreak havoc on any computer system that’s not protected against them. Know your enemy so you can build your defenses properly!

IDENTITY THEFT

You’ve heard the stories, but maybe you think it can’t happen to you. That myth will be broken as soon as you read this article!

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

IT goes far beyond the team of people who take care of your computer at work. Also, it’s strongly connected to cyber security!

MOBILE SECURITY

Most of us use our smartphones more than we use our laptops or desktops. But the computer in our pocket deserves to be protected as much as any other device we own.

NETWORK SECURITY

It’s time you find out what’s behind this technical term that cyber security insiders throw around all the time.

SECURE BY DESIGN

While this concept may seem self-explanatory, there are details to it worth knowing, because it impacts our daily lives.

WHAT IS MALWARE?

If you’ve ever wondered why viruses have been replaced by malware in the news and beyond, this is the chance to find out (in just 1 minute).

WHY IS CYBER SECURITY IMPORTANT?

At the end of the day, does it really impact your life that much? Spoiler alert: it does.

CYBER SECURITY FACTS, FIGURES AND EXAMPLES

Secure your foothold in the online security world by going over some specific data and examples (the kind that makes the information stick).

CYBER SECURITY FACTS

The list could go on for days, but these 10 key facts will help you understand why cyber crime is a serious threat for everyone (both those who actively use the Internet and those who don’t).

CYBER SECURITY INFOGRAPHIC

If you were to look at a single infographic to understand the core challenges in cyber security nowadays, then this is the one we’d recommend.

CYBER SECURITY MARKET

One hint related to the state of the cyber security market is “huge growth”. You should discover the context and details at your own pace.

CYBER SECURITY STATISTICS

These numbers can give you an idea of how important information security has become for private and public companies, but also for home users like you and me. The more tech we use, the safer we need it to be.

CYBER SECURITY TRENDS

Find out what can we expect to happen this year in the field of IT security, as reputed experts share their insights.

True stories: These stories will make you think twice about the “it can’t happen to me” prejudice: About the Time I Got Hacked and Lost All My Work, These True 12+ Internet Crime Stories Will Make You Care about Cybersecurity, What I Found Out About a Person After Having Accidentally Found Their Travel Card.

CYBER SECURITY DEVELOPMENTS

The turning points in the (recent) history of cyber security reveal key issues and potential solutions which concern us all. As you’ll see, the lack of basic online security measures is what created huge problems for millions of people around the globe.

ASHLEY MADISON

The notorious data breach made a strong point of how online activities can severely affect people’s offline lives. Many lessons to be learnt from it.

CYBER SECURITY EVENTS

If you’re interested in attending key cyber security events in the industry, this is a great resource!

FIRST COMPUTER WORM

This is where it all started – one of the first computer worms in history, who garnered media attention and got its creator convicted (even if it hadn’t been created to damage any computer systems).

MIRAI MALWARE

The reason why you should read about Mirai is to understand how weak passwords on your devices can turn your smart gadgets into cyber weapons that can take down the Internet. You can also opt for this concise walk-through or for this technical analysis, depending on what you’d like to find out.

STUXNET ATTACK

This is the almost movie-like story of the very real Stuxnet malware, the first digital weapon in the history of cyber security.

CYBER THREATS

This is where we explore how certain cyber threats work. Understanding that is the first step to protecting your data and devices against them, so let’s dive right in!

CYBER SECURITY THREATS

Although many of the attack tactics that online criminals use aren’t new, it doesn’t mean that blackhat hackers don’t innovate. They’re always after the next big thing and these trends are proof.

ADVANCED MALWARE

This is not just a fancy term, as you’ll discover. Advanced malware actually has specific characteristics that make it more dangerous than other cyber threats.

BOTNET

This guide will show you how your devices can be infected and used to attack other computer systems. Of course, protection advice is included in the menu.

TYPES OF CYBER ATTACKS

There are plenty of tactics that cybercriminals use to get in your devices, online accounts and even bank account. Reading just a bit about them can prove tremendously useful for your digital life.

TYPES OF MALWARE

These are the main types of malicious software that cyber attackers create and distribute to gain access to data, steal money or enhance their malicious infrastructure.

CYBER SECURITY GUIDES

Now that you’re familiar with the core concepts in cyber security, it’s time to get to the practical part! The online security guides below are packed with applicable advice, printscreens and examples that you can use right away, for free. Time to walk the talk!

BROWSER PROTECTION

Your browser is the first target for cybercriminals and there’s a lot you can do to keep it safe. This is the full guide you need for Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge.

BYOD SECURITY

If your workplace has a Bring Your Own Device policy, this is what you need to know about securing it, so you never risk losing your job.

CYBER SECURITY TIPS

Bite-size Internet security nuggets you can read and apply in just a few minutes. A hundred and thirty-one of them!

CYBERSECURITY FOR BEGINNERS

Over 15500 people already took this free course via email and improved their cyber security skills. All actionable and simple to understand. Check it out!

CYBERSECURITY QUIZ

Probably one of the most useful ways in which you can spend 10 minutes during your lunch break.

EMAIL SECURITY

Your email is your base online. Be serious about its protection and you’ll rule out a big chunk of cyber attacks that target your data.

INTERNET SAFETY FOR KIDS

Family internet security: Your vulnerable family members use the Internet too, so they need your help to avoid common security pitfalls. This guide for parents and this guide on Internet safety for kids provide helpful tips.

HOW TO CLEAN UP YOUR COMPUTER

The less clutter in your computer (or any device, for that matter), the smaller the risk of falling victim to a cyber attack. Here’s the guide you need for a thorough cleanup.

HOW TO REMOVE MALWARE FROM YOUR PC

If you do have a malware infection, these are the steps you need to take to properly clean it up.

HOW TO REPORT CYBERCRIME

The cybercrime statistics you saw at the top of this page are just the tip of the iceberg, as most cybercrimes go unreported. If you report cyber attacks to authorities, you’ll make a strong contribution to the global fight against cybercrime! This helps you and many other as well.

HOW TO SECURE WINDOWS 10

If you’re a Windows 10 user, this guide will help you make the most of the OS’s privacy and security settings.

INTERNET OF THINGS

If you own a smartphone, a smart TV, an Internet-connected fridge or any other smart gadget, please, please, please read and apply these tips! It will secure your data and make the Internet a safer place for all at the same time!

MALWARE DETECTION

Are you really infected with malware or is your system just malfunctioning? Find out what signs you should look out for in case anything suspicious happens.

MALWARE REMOVAL FOR ANDROID

Unfortunately, the Android operating system is a top target for malware creators and many fall victims to these attacks. See what you can do to clean up your smartphone or tablet if you’ve been infected.

MANAGE APP PERMISSIONS

Internet criminals are very astute and know how to use app permissions to trick you into giving them access to your private information. But this guide will teach you how to beat them at their own game.

MULTI-LAYERED PROTECTION

Think of your confidential data (bank account details, card information, home address, etc.) as your treasure. Building a wall to protect it is no longer enough. You need a fortress and this guide will explain how you can build it!

ONLINE PRIVACY GUIDE

Use this comprehensive guide to understand how you can keep your data private from both cyber criminals and other entities that want to know more about you (than you want to share).

ONLINE SCAMS

People around the world lose millions each year because they fall for the tricks that cybercriminals and online scammers play on them. Even cyber savvy users can be compromised. These are the key tactics that you might face on the web and beyond.

ONLINE SHOPPING SECURITY

Buying stuff online is easy and saves a ton of time, but it can also give attackers direct access to your card details and bank account. Watch your step online and apply these tips to shop safely!

PASSWORD SECURITY

As annoying as you may find them, passwords are not going away anytime soon. What’s more, they’re crucial for your online security! Managing them responsibly is a fundamental necessity and this guide teaches you all about it.

PHISHING

Learn how phishing works and how you can safely navigate away from this type of cyber attacks.

PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL DATA FROM CYBERCRIMINALS

Your card details, your online banking credentials and any other confidential data about your finances is golden for IT criminals. This is how you can protect it fiercely!

RANSOMWARE

This is the biggest cyber threat of the moment and it can affect everyone, from schools and churches to users like you and me. But you can prevent it and doing it is easier than you may think!

SECURE OPERATING SYSTEMS

Have you ever asked yourself “what is the most secure OS in the world?” Well, you’re not the only one. These are the options and you can also compare them to this other list.

SECURITY FOR BLOGGERS

If you have a blog, you have a responsibility to your readers to make sure they’re safe while reading your posts. This guide will teach you how you can achieve and maintain that security.

SECURITY FOR GAMERS

If you’re an avid gamer, you should know that cybercriminals have the right malicious tools to get you too. Protect your passion and your progress with these simple tips.

SECURITY FOR STARTUP FOUNDERS

As a startup founder, security is your responsibility too. These stories from startup founders might be just what you need to help you make the right decisions.

SMARTPHONE SECURITY

Your smartphone encapsulates much of your digital life and even goes beyond it. From your work life to your personal life, it probably stores many assets that need protection. And there are more than a few things you can apply from this guide. Give it a chance!

SOCIAL ENGINEERING

This is how cybercriminals try to manipulate you into revealing information about yourself/others that you wouldn’t give up in other circumstances. Social media safety: Learn how to secure your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Snapchat and Pinterest accounts to enjoy them risk-free!

SPAM PROTECTION

Spam is not only annoying, but it also carries dangerous malware threats within. But there are things you can do to keep your inbox safe from it and tactics you can use to avoid becoming a target for spam emails.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET HACKED

You’re more vulnerable to cyber attacks when you travel. That’s why you need to be extra-careful. Here are some useful dos and don’ts.

WI-FI SECURITY

Wi-fi security: Safeguarding your home Wi-fi is just as important as securing your data when using public Wi-fi hotspots. Remember: ignoring the threats won’t make them go away!

CYBER SECURITY TOOLS

There is a lot you can do by yourself in terms of cyber security and data privacy, but you can’t replace the dedicated tools that your computer and other gadgets need. I mentioned “tools” because one layer of protection is not enough. Here are some options:

BEST FREE SECURITY AND PRIVACY TOOLS IN 2019

From blocking annoying ads to hiding all traces of your presence online, here are the essential resources for this year.

ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE

These steps will guide you to find the right antivirus product for your needs and budget.

ENCRYPTION

Demystifying encryption is not an easy task, but this guide lives up to it. You’ll have a much clearer understanding of it once you’ve read the article.

FIND THE BEST VPN

Your data privacy is probably very important to you, so you’ll want to use the best VPN out there. If you don’t know what a VPN is, this is also the place to find out.

SECURE MESSAGING

Using chat apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp is handy and saves time, but which of them are the most secure options? Check out the guide and you’ll find out!

CYBER SECURITY EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENT

Looking to expand your education or build a career in cyber security? We have just the resources for you!

BEST CYBER SECURITY COLLEGES

If you’re looking for the best schools in the USA that teach cyber security, this list may help you narrow down your options.

BEST CITIES FOR CYBER SECURITY PROFESSIONALS

If you want to relocate to find a better job in the industry, these are the best places in the US to work in, according to this study.

CYBER SECURITY CERTIFICATIONS

People often ask us what certifications they should prepare for to build their experience and skills. This is something to help you get started, and you can also use this list built for 2017.

CYBER SECURITY COURSES

If you’re looking for entry-level courses (both free and paid), this guide provides some options that are worth reading about.

CYBER SECURITY RESOURCES AND CAREER PROFILES

Cybersecurity Masters Degree offers essential insights into cybersecurity career profiles and compiles a host of valuable resources on certifications, industries, pay scales and more.

CYBER SECURITY JOB DESCRIPTION

What do cyber security specialists do exactly? Find out by reading their job descriptions and glance through the coolest careers in the field today.

CYBER SECURITY JOBS

The job market in cyber security is definitely growing, but you can take this opportunity to find out just how much.

CYBER SECURITY NEWS

Question: How do you keep up to date with the most important news in cyber security? Answer: By subscribing to the blogs and websites in this list!

CYBER SECURITY SALARY

Does it pay well to work in cyber security? There’s only way to find out! By reading this recommended resource.

CYBER SECURITY READINGS

The more you learn, the less you know, as the saying goes. This applies to cyber security as well, of course, as there is always new information to process and new challenges to conquer. Here are some of the best resources in the industry you can turn to when you need them.

BEST SECURITY BLOGS

When it comes to blogs, this list will help you cover your basis and discover some great cyber security content!

CYBER SECURITY BOOKS

For bookworms, cyber security experts recommend these 5 books and there is also a great selection on Goodreads you can browse through.

CYBER SECURITY EXPERTS

We’ve picked the brains of more than a few cyber security experts to explore their perspective on current developments in the field. Promise it’s worth your time!

CYBER SECURITY FORUMS

Forums are still places where you can find out a ton of useful stuff about cyber security. They also engage both newbies and experts, which makes it a great place for learning and asking for help.

CYBER SECURITY KEY TERMS

Browse over 300 definitions for key cyber security terms and finally understand the lingo!

CYBER SECURITY PODCASTS

Is listening to podcasts your thing? Then there’s a way to work cyber security into your routine as well!

CYBER SECURITY FOR ORGANIZATIONS

No matter the size of your business, cyber security should be a priority. It’s not just common sense that dictates this necessity, but also the legal environment, which is starting to regulate this activity more thoroughly.

CYBER SECURITY COMPANIES

While this is not a definitive list, it is useful in exploring the myriad of cyber security companies, younger and older, that provide solutions for both companies and home users.

CYBER SECURITY BEST PRACTICES

These useful insights can help guide your efforts to secure your company and keep your protection standards high.

CYBER SECURITY FRAMEWORK

Adopting a series of well-defined standards for your organization’s cyber protection can help you focus your efforts and resources where it matters. Here are 3 useful resources: Why you should adopt the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, details about the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and information on what a cybersecurity framework really is.

CYBER SECURITY ISSUES WITH CLOUD COMPUTING

Your company probably uses cloud computing as well, and of course that, just as any other piece of tech, it has its own set of cyber risks. Knowing them can help you prioritize them in your cyber security strategy.

CYBER SECURITY POLICY

After learning about 10 fundamental things you need to include in your cyber security policy, you can use these templates to put thought to action.

CYBER SECURITY STRATEGY

It’s not uncommon for smaller companies or organizations not to have a clear cyber security strategy. But you can start building one right now!

DATA BREACH RESPONSE PLAN

We hope this never happens to your organization, but if you do suffer a data breach, you definitely need to have a plan in place to deal with it.

EU GDPR

Discover what the EU General Data Protection Regulation is all about and what it means for your company/institution.

INCIDENT RESPONSE

Are you prepared to react promptly and mitigate a potential cyber attack on your organization? This can help you plan your response so you have everything you need to limit the damage.

SECURITY ARCHITECTURE

Do use the concept of security architecture in your organization? It can significantly help you with planning and implementing key cyber security measures.

VULNERABILITY MANAGEMENT

The security holes in your computer systems is how cybercriminals get in. That’s why vulnerability management is a fundamental activity for your IT or cyber security department. A must-read!

Congrats! You’ve reached the end of the list!

We’d be thrilled to find out which resources you found most useful. Also, if you know a better resource on any of the topics above, please let us know. We’re always looking for the best of the best!

And if you’d like to propose other topics to be included in this mega guide, the comments section below is just waiting for you input.

Let’s make cyber security simpler for all!

Andra Zaharia

Security Evangelist

As a Security Specialist at Heimdal Security, Andra has made it her mission to help users understand how cyber security works and why it’s essential for any Internet user in the world. Using her background in PR and communication, she singles out relevant subjects and extracts actionable market data and key examples to illustrate them.

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