We can’t live without being connected to the internet, well at least I know I can’t, and we’re connected via computers, smartphones, and tablets throughout the day. Technology is constantly improving and increasing. With online threats increasing daily, there are actually some security tips that can help you stay safe in this digital world.
Why do I need tips?
Who doesn’t want a tip or a little extra money? (Hehe) But in all seriousness, we all should care about this. The amount of threats out there is greater than ever before. Security tips can help you, but you should be aware of what you’re facing. Some of the threats you should be watching out for include:
- Data Breaches – unless you choose a good cloud provider, follow proper security measures, and reinforce your encryption system, your information could be vulnerable. A data breach is when your protected data is accessed or disclosed to viewers that aren’t authorized to see it. Yes, sometimes this doesn’t happen on purpose, but most are intentional and have financial motivations driving them.
- Malware Attacks – this is when malicious software infects your system. They can come from free software programs, USB (thumb) drives, file sharing, and not using a proper antivirus program. Malware includes viruses, spyware, adware, and numerous other harmful “wares”.
- Hacking – hacking isn’t as complicated as it’s made out to be in the movies. Most of the time, it happens when you share your credentials and access to passwords. One day you’re sharing it with a friend, somehow it can get out because there’s malware on your friend’s computer. Now you’re vulnerable.
Technology is advancing, as it should, but with this comes the advancement of threats. It isn’t just organizations that need to protect their data, if you haven’t watched “The Great Hack” documentary, you should. It lets us know that personal data is also vulnerable.
So where are these tips I keep talking about?
- Keep some things for just yourself – Social media is king now, and it’s easy to get pulled in to all the liking and sharing, online games, quizzes that tell you what kind of potato you are, all require sharing of details from your email or social media. Keep cautious when you do this as your information can you used to steal your identity, your financial details, and even harm you physically.
- Use Protection – one of the easiest and best ways of staying safe online is to use Antivirus software protection. They detect malicious software and prevents them from infecting your device. Another source of protection is you yourself! Keep informed of the latest scams and threats so that you won’t fall for them. Antivirus software can only do so much.
- Secure your browser and home network – a good way to secure your browser is to use an ad blocker. This not only enhances your online experience by getting rid of those pesky popup advertisements, but it also ensures that you won’t be infected by any that might have malware. Also, make sure to avoid sharing any of your financial or personal details over public Wi-Fi networks. They’re usually not secured. To protect your home network, you should build a wall! Even if you have to pay for it yourself. Well, a physical wall might not solve anything, but a firewall will help ensure that all devices that are connected to your network are secure.
- Shop but think – online shopping is super popular right now and is as easy as clickety click, so there’s a few things you should think about. You should worry about clicking on ads that are infected with malware. But, since online shopping involves using your credit card or bank account information, you need to check that the site address begins with ‘HTTPS’. The ‘S’ in that stands for secure. Or, check to see if there is a padlock icon adjacent to the address bar. Not only is this website secure, it’ll be encrypted, making it next to impossible for anyone to steal your information.
If you’re constantly online, which nowadays we all are, digital security should be a priority to you. These security tips that we gave you are just a starting point for you. The main takeaway you should get from this is that the online world is a dangerous place. One of the most important things you can do is to educate yourself about the risks that abound out there and learn how to protect yourself.
Contact us or click here, to find out more about the digital world, the latest in cybersecurity, or how to protect yourself in the digital age.
References:
- Birdsong, Toni, et al. “10 Tips To Stay Safe Online.” McAfee Blogs, 7 July 2017, https://securingtomorrow.mcafee.com/consumer/consumer-threat-notices/10-tips-stay-safe-online/.
- Kingori, Duncan. “Top 10 Cybersecurity Risks For 2019.” United States Cybersecurity Magazine, 17 Jan. 2019, https://www.uscybersecurity.net/risks-2019/.