Although cyberattacks have been around for decades, more and more they are becoming a part of daily life. Pete Walther welcomes Tammy Stephens, SVP & National Account Executive, to discuss overall digital awareness with regard to ever-evolving cyber risks.

Tammy's top pieces of advice: Focus on progress, not perfection. Trying to get it perfect all at once can be overwhelming. Start with small simple steps. Second, practice awareness and good digital hygiene. And third, create a plan for pre- and post-breach action. Having a plan in place can help you avoid a white-knuckle ride, should a breach occur. Tammy encourages listeners to slow down, to stop, think, and then act. Tammy also elaborates on common sources of cyber risk: Phishing/Vishing/Smishing, Ransomware, and the Internet of Things, and provides tips to avoid a cyber attack:

1. Upgrade your router and Wi-Fi extenders.

2. Rename your network.

3. Install highly regarded anti-malware.

4. Use a virtual private network (VPN).

5. Enable your network encryption.

6. Turn off network name broadcasting.

7. Keep your software up to date.

8. Have a good firewall.

9. Secure your passwords. Enroll in a password manager.

10. Enable multi-factor authentication.

When it comes having a plan, she offers some key advice: Contact your insurance advisor to understand what cyber coverages may already be in place under your existing policies, and what additional coverages may be available to you. Gain access to legal and cyber security expertise with 24/7 hotlines, which will come in handy in the event of a breach. And sit down with your family to discuss cyber hygiene expectations and build a layered approach to prevention and detection.

Most importantly: DO NOT WAIT to have a cyber event to form a plan or response.