Data up to October 2023; Cyber Security Awareness for Authors!

As technology has advanced, so have the ways that authors research, write, edit, and publish in an increasingly digital world. But this convenience comes with risks too. Cyber aliens — people who hack, breach, and deploy malware — can violate an author’s intellectual property, personal financial data and online persona. However, with cyber security knowledge and capable cyber security software, authors can protect their work and personal information from cyber threats.

Why Cyber Security Matters for Authors

Cybersecurity for Authors — Why Are You A Target? You are an author at heart, but you are an online business person and your outreach is online, you are more exposed to possible cyber attacks. Cybercriminals doing their usual job -- targeting creative professionals and stealing unpublished manuscripts, personal data, and financial information. Phishing attempts, malicious software (malware) through ransomware, and hackers accessing secured files can have detrimental results like stolen identities or ” theft of intellectual property.

Implementing strong cyber security practices and investing in robust cyber security software that safeguards against cyber threats are some of the ways that authors can mitigate such risks.

Cyber Threats Authors Can Face:

Phishing Attacks – Fake emails or messages deceive authors into disclosing sensitive details such as login or bank details.

Ransomware — Malicious software that encrypts files and demands payment for their release, can lead to loss of unpublished work.

Unauthorized Access — Weak passwords or unsecured networks are sometimes exploited by hackers to access an author’s personal files and correspondence.

Data Breaches – Cloud storage accounts and email services are vulnerable to being hacked, allowing cybercriminals access to sensitive information.

Malware and Viruses Infected attachments or compromised websites can install harmful software that damages files and steals data.

What Cyber Security Software Does to Safe Guide Authors

Cyber Security Software: The most important thing authors can do is invest in the proper cyber security software to protect their work and identity. Here are a few features to consider:

Antivirus and Anti-Malware Protection — It is the function, ability to detect and remove malicious software (malware) that is capable of compromising the device of an author.

Firewall Protection – Blocks unauthorized entry to a computer or network.

Secure Cloud Storage – An additional layer of encryption for sensitive documents and manuscripts

Password Managers – Create and help to store strong passwords to minimize the chances of unauthorized access.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) – Provides secure encryption of internet connections to safeguard browsing activity and online exchanges.

How Authors Can Improve Cyber Security

Use Strong Passwords – Create complicated passwords and turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra protection.

Update Software Regularly – Ensure that your OS, writing tools and cyber security software are up to date to avoid vulnerabilities.

Back Up Your Work — Back up your work regularly to an external hard drive and cloud storage service with strong security to avoid losing data.

Do Not Trust Suspicious Emails — Never click links or download attachments from unknown sources.

Use secure writing platforms — Make sure that writing and collaboration platforms have good security features.