Cybersecurity engineer Asante Babers, based in the United States, is encouraging people to review their everyday digital habits before a simple mistake becomes a costly problem.
Colorado, USA, August 12th, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE, Most people believe cybercriminals are only interested in large companies or wealthy individuals. According to cybersecurity engineer Asante Babers, that misconception is one of the biggest security risks people face today.
After more than 20 years designing and strengthening security systems across enterprise, government, and mission-critical environments, Babers says the majority of cyber incidents begin with ordinary decisions made by ordinary people.
“The biggest threat isn’t always a sophisticated attack,” Babers says. “More often, it’s a simple habit that someone never thought needed to change.”
Industry research supports that view:
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More than 80% of data breaches involve stolen or weak passwords.
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Over 90% of successful cyberattacks begin with phishing or social engineering.
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Nearly 60% of people reuse passwords across multiple accounts.
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Around 70% of security incidents involve some form of human error.
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More than half of internet users have not enabled multi-factor authentication on their most important accounts.
Babers believes those numbers show that cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue.
“Every online account, every mobile device, and every email inbox is part of your personal security,” he says. “The habits you develop every day matter more than most people realise.”
The Mistake People Keep Making
One of the most common misconceptions Babers sees is the belief that installing security software is enough.
“Technology helps,” he explains. “But software can’t replace good judgement.”
He says many people unknowingly create unnecessary risk by reusing passwords, delaying software updates, or clicking on links without taking a moment to verify where they came from.
“Cybercriminals don’t always break into systems,” Babers says. “Many times, they’re invited in because someone trusted the wrong email or reused the wrong password.”
A Simple Cybersecurity Self-Check
Take a few minutes to answer these questions honestly.
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Do you use a different password for your most important online accounts?
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Have you enabled multi-factor authentication on your email and banking accounts?
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Do you regularly install updates on your phone and computer?
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Would you recognise the warning signs of a phishing email or text message?
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Do you know what you would do if one of your online accounts was compromised?
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Have you reviewed your online security settings within the past year?
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Do you regularly back up your important files?
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Are you careful before clicking unexpected links or downloading attachments?
What Your Answers Mean
If you answered yes to most of the questions, you have built strong habits that reduce your exposure to common cyber threats. Continue reviewing your accounts and stay informed as technology changes.
If you answered yes to about half of them, you already have a good foundation, but there are still opportunities to strengthen your security. Focus first on creating unique passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication wherever it is available.
If you answered no to most of the questions, now is a good time to take action. Start with your email account, update your passwords, enable additional account protection, and make sure your devices are running the latest software.
What to Do Next
Babers recommends focusing on a few practical habits rather than trying to solve everything at once.
Start by replacing any passwords that are reused across multiple accounts. Turn on multi-factor authentication for your email and financial accounts. Keep your devices updated, and pause before opening unexpected emails, text messages, or links.
“Security isn’t about becoming an expert,” Babers says. “It’s about slowing down long enough to make better decisions.”
He also encourages people to have conversations about online safety with family members, especially those who may be less familiar with today’s digital threats.
“One simple conversation can prevent a serious problem,” he says. “Awareness is still one of the strongest forms of protection we have.”
Call to Action
Take this self-check today and identify one cybersecurity habit you can improve this week. Then share it with a friend or family member. Small changes made consistently can significantly reduce your risk and help create safer online habits for everyone.
About Asante Babers
Asante Babers is a cybersecurity engineer with more than 20 years of experience designing, operating, and strengthening security systems across enterprise, government, and mission-critical environments. His work focuses on building resilient security architectures, modernising legacy infrastructure, reducing technical debt, and helping organisations and individuals better understand cybersecurity through practical, real-world education.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.