The rise of the digital age was inevitable, and it has affected a lot of people, including you. As you all know, the population of people using the internet continues to rise up until today. This is why you need to take control of your privacy and protect the interests of your online identity. Here are 7 ways to protect yourself online.
People are revealing more personal information to the online world than they expected when they use social media platforms and networks which makes it more difficult to secure valuable data. Fortunately, there are many strategies for safeguarding your online identity and personal data. Here are the top seven ways to stay protected online.
1. You Should Keep Your Devices Up-To-Date
Companies frequently issue security updates to correct vulnerabilities that could allow hackers access. The best protection against viruses, ransomware, and other cyber attacks is keeping your devices up-to-date with new security tools, web browsers, and operating systems.
As much as possible, you should update your computer as soon as new software becomes available or you can switch on automatic updates to get the latest fixes as soon as they are posted so that you have no need to manually update it.
2. You Should Set Strong Passwords
Focusing on building good passwords is the most common way to secure your online identity. Choose a password that can not be easily broken or decoded when making one. A good password comprises a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols and is at least eight characters long.
Never use anything related to your first, middle, or last name, and even your spouse’s or your child’s name. Also, it is not advisable to put your address, phone numbers, employers, or other distinguishing letters or numbers that can be associated with you.
If you really want to secure yourself from online cyber-attacks, make a combination of numbers and letters in your password. Also, use special symbols whenever applicable and a mixture of upper and lowercase letters.
3. You Should Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication, also known as two-step verification, adds an additional layer of protection to your username and password. If you use this security feature, you’ll log in with your password and then be asked to check your identity once more.
This second verification is normally accomplished using a biometric (fingerprint or face scan), security keys, or a one-time code created by a mobile app.
Many websites and businesses provide two-step authentication, and they make it simple to set it up – usually in your profile’s settings page. Two-step authentication will make you feel more secure, particularly when it comes to sites that store your financial information.
4. You Should Not Connect To Public WiFi
You have no direct control over the security of a public internet link, such as Wi-Fi in a shopping center. The ability of a hacker to place himself between you and the connection point poses the greatest threat in a free WiFi setup. Rather than communicating directly with the hotspot, you send your data to the hacker, who then passes it on.
The hacker has access to any piece of information you send out on the Internet when operating in this configuration: essential emails, credit card information, and even security credentials for your business network.
If the hacker has that knowledge, he can access your systems as if he were you whenever he wants. Avoid connecting to public WiFi as it is more vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks. Wait until you are at home and connect to a secure WiFi network.
5. You Should Use A VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) generates a private network from a public internet connection, granting you online anonymity and security. You should choose among the best VPNs to keep your devices secure. VPNs hide your IP address, making your online activities practically untraceable.
When accessing the internet from your home, work, or anywhere else, using a VPN is particularly important. Cybercriminals would have a tougher time violating your online privacy and gaining access to your personal information if you use a VPN.
As data is transmitted over a Wi-Fi network, VPNs use encryption to mask it. The data is made unreadable after encryption. Data security is vital because it prevents those on the network from listening in on your online activities.
If you’re wondering if use of VPN’s are safe, here’s a resource where you can read more about it.
6. You Should Install Antivirus Software
Antivirus software should be mounted on all of your computers. This program will prevent hackers from taking control of your computer remotely, accessing your personal and financial details, and monitoring your location.
And don’t forget about this app once you’ve installed it. As a precaution against the new ransomware, spyware, and other viruses, manufacturers periodically upgrade their virus security software. Updates should be installed as soon as they become available.
7. You Should Always Think Before You Click!
There are many different phishing scams out there, but they can be avoided by educating yourself on how to recognize them efficiently and properly.
You should learn how to identify and stop phishing scams, in which criminals use manipulation to convince you to open emails that contain viruses or trick you into arrangements that rob your funds or identification.
Phishing attempts are one of the ways that hackers invade your online privacy. Scammers use phishing to trick you into providing confidential financial or personal information. They sometimes do this by sending bogus emails purporting to be from banks, credit card firms, or other financial institutions.
These emails often instruct you to click a link to check your financial details in order to prevent your account from being frozen or locked. So, remember, you should always think before you click!
You should take proper measures to settle and identify anything that can expose your online identity a lot more. By taking these necessary preventive ways, you will find yourself at ease and you do not have to worry about hackers any longer. Bear in mind to always protect yourself online to avoid unnecessary complications and stress that may face by not being cautious.
