Cybersecurity Awareness Month is an internationally recognised campaign held each October to inform the public of the importance of cybersecurity and how to protect themselves.

1. Never use the “Login with Facebook” buttons on websites. If your Facebook account is compromised, so will your other accounts.

2. Don't use your sun email address for personal admin, for example Facebook, SARS, bank, municipal or any accounts. Rather create a private Gmail address to separate your work and private life.

3. Always lock your account/PC when you leave your desk and watch out for shoulder surfers.

4. Don't write your password down and stick it on your monitor or anywhere near your PC. Also don't share your passwords with colleagues.

5. Choose complex passwords. Most standard passwords found in a dictionary can be cracked within seconds.

6. Never use the "Remember password" option for your accounts. If you lose your device, the thief will have access to your information.

7. Read and think before clicking on links and attachments in emails. Your account could be compromised, as well as the university network.

Would you like to share your hints with us? Please email us at bitsbytes@sun.ac.za.