While our lives have been increasingly intertwined with technology for many years, the pandemic brought it to an entirely new level. While video conferencing and social media allow us to remain connected even when we are far apart, it also makes us more vulnerable to cybercriminals. We’ll be sharing some tips on how to manage your internet footprint.
Simple ways to keep your online security secure
Remote work and increased use of tech platforms in covid-19 have led to an increase in phishing attacks and security concerns. You can’t do much about a data breach at a shopping or financial platform. These common sense guidelines will help you avoid identity theft, malware and other cybersecurity threats.
1. Your online accounts should be kept private
It is easy to improve your online privacy by managing your privacy settings so your personal data is not visible on social media. You won’t share your personal information with strangers, potential employers, or cybercriminals.
2. Pay attention during sign ups
When signing up for new accounts, keep your personally identifiable information separate from your usernames or email addresses. You may be asked to connect with people you already know when you sign-up for new email accounts or social networks. You can instead add friends manually.
Last but not least, be aware of other privacy and security options such as excluding your profile from search results and enabling 2-factor authentication.
3. Keep your antivirus up-to-date
It is important to have antivirus software installed on your computer. Fortunately, most devices include this feature. It is worth taking the time to make sure your computer is protected from new malware and spyware.
Both apple and android offer regular operating system updates that will keep your mobile devices protected. You should keep an eye out for any updates and don’t delay!
4. Use strong and unique passwords
Batch-trying usernames and passwords on several sites is one of the most common ways hackers can gain access to your accounts. It is possible for hackers to gain access to your bank accounts or credit cards login information by breaching a small website. Password managers make it simple to avoid this security risk. Make strong passwords for each site that you use, and leave it up to the manager to remember them all.
5. Use a VPN to access the internet.
Your information is at risk every time you log onto public wi-fi in a coffee shop. Your online activity could be accessed depending on how secure the wi-fi network is. This problem can be eliminated by using a virtual private network (vpn). Bonus: VPNs can hide your IP address and spoof your location to advertisers and your internet service provider.
6. Clear your cache
Are you aware of how much information your browser has about you? Personal data can be collected through cookies, search engine activity, browsing history, and other web browsers. These processes will differ depending on whether you are using firefox, chrome or another browser. Once you have learned the steps to clear your cache make it a habit.
7. Secure sites are important
Hackers have a lot of money by purchasing on unsecure websites. Secure your bank account, credit card information, address and phone number by shopping only on secured sites. Pay attention to the address of any site that encrypts and protects data. Secure sites are identified by https rather than http.
8. Click bait is a danger
Be careful and be on the lookout for link bait in emails and online. Many phishing links will prompt you to download unsafe files which can infect your computer. Be aware of the signs of scams, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Your credit card number or social security number would not be given to strangers. So, give your personal information online the same protection! These security tips can help protect your computer, iPhone, and other devices from being compromised. Want to learn more about cybersecurity? Reach out to your local computer repairman. Our tech superheroes will help you improve your security in no-time!