Access to the internet has made it so easy for everyone to carryout their daily operations but rarely do we protect our personal information. Whether it’s banking details, passwords, or personal photos, safeguarding data is key to maintaining privacy and security.
Knowing these threats is the first step toward digital security as they can help you recognize suspicious activities and avoid falling victim to them.
How do you protect yourself from such threats?
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Using strong passwords is a fundamental step in protecting your information. A secure password should ideally:
- Be at least 12 characters long.
- Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using common words, names, or sequential numbers (like “12345” or “password”).
To make it easier to manage, consider using a reputable password manager, which can generate complex passwords and store them securely when you need them.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. This could be a code sent to your phone, a fingerprint scan, or a one-time password generated by an app. Many services, including social media and email platforms, offer 2FA, which significantly reduces the chances of unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.
3. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
While Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient, they are likely to expose your information to cybercriminals as these networks are often unencrypted, making it easier for hackers to intercept data. To protect yourself:
- Avoid accessing sensitive accounts (like banking apps) on public Wi-Fi.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your information.
4. Stay Updated with Security Patches
Many cyberattacks exploit vulnerabilities especially with outdated software. Regularly updating your operating system, browser, and apps ensures that you have the latest security patches installed. Enabling automatic updates on your devices can also make this process easier.
5. Limit Sharing of Personal Information
Be mindful of the information you share online, particularly on social media. Cybercriminals can use details like your birthdate, location, or even your pet’s name to guess passwords or security questions. Consider reviewing your privacy settings on social platforms and limiting the visibility of personal information to trusted contacts only.
6. Back-Up Important Data
Regular backups protect you from data loss in case of a cyberattack, accidental deletion, or hardware failure. You can back up files to an external hard drive or use a cloud storage service with strong security measures. By regularly backing up your data, you’ll have access to your information even if your device is compromised.
7. Monitor Your Financial and Online Accounts Regularly
This is one area we forget the most. But regularly checking your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts will help you detect unusual activity. If you spot unfamiliar transactions, contact your bank or service provider immediately. Many institutions offer alerts for suspicious activity, which you can enable for real-time notifications.
8. Be Wary of Phishing Scams and Untrusted Links
Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages, as they might lead to phishing websites that steal your information. Legitimate companies rarely request sensitive information through email. Always verify the sender’s address, and hover over links to check the destination before clicking.
9. Use Encryption Tools for Sensitive Information
Encryption is an excellent way to protect your sensitive information. Many messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the intended recipient can read your messages. Additionally, you can consider encrypting files or using secure email services if you need to send confidential information.
Staying informed about emerging threats is key to maintaining your safety. Taking these proactive steps will help you enjoy a safer, more secure online experience.