How to Keep Your Information Safe Online

Although technology has done wonders for safety in some regards, online security has become a hot topic in recent years. The internet is unavoidable (and let's face it, most of us would be lost without it!), so it's more important than ever to use it with a certain degree of caution. Every other day, we hear horror stories about phishing scams and hacking, so how do we minimize the risks of the online world for ourselves? Thankfully, there are a few simple but effective changes we can make to ensure we keep ourselves and our data safe online. Below are some of our top tips for enhancing your online security.

Use a Reliable VPN Service

One of the easiest things you can do to protect yourself online is to avail of a tried-and-tested VPN service. A VPN is a virtual private network that lets you stay safe by concealing your IP address and encrypting your data, keeping your activity private. Using a VPN is a good idea no matter what WiFi you connect to, but it's especially worthwhile if you're using an unfamiliar or public network. Some of the top providers include NordVPN and Surf Shark.

Be Cautious of Open or Public WiFi

If you choose not to use a VPN, joining a public WiFi can potentially be very risky. Some open networks are perfectly safe, but WiFi that can be accessed without a password is much more susceptible to security threats than those that are locked. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to use an open connection, refrain from logging into anything that contains your bank details or any sensitive information.

Avoid Using the Same Password for Multiple Devices and Accounts

We're all guilty of relying on the same few passwords for everything, but doing so can leave us vulnerable to scams and hackers. If there's a data leak that's affected one of your accounts, there's a chance hackers will use your information to log into other profiles you've created. The best way to avoid running into this issue is to ensure no two passwords of yours are the same. Should you choose to use variations of the same password, remember to change more than just one or two characters.

Use Password Managers With Caution

The tricky part of creating unique passwords is keeping track of them all. Many browsers, apps, and programs provide built-in password managers to combat this issue. In short, they work by saving your login details so you don't need to remember the password each time you sign in. This is incredibly convenient but must be utilized correctly. For example, using a password manager for personal accounts on a work device may leave your information open to other employees.

Turn On 2-Step Verification Where Possible

While 2-step authentication processes can be a little more inconvenient than you might want, they're among the best ways to maintain online security. By confirming the likes of logins and purchases with a text or email, other internet users are much less likely to obtain your data. If you change your phone number or email address or lose access to either, remember that this can affect your ability to complete multi-step verification. As a result, it's essential to update your details online with any account that uses several security layers.

Ensure You Use Up-To-Date Antivirus Software

Activating a decent antivirus software or firewall on your computer has been a go-to safety strategy for decades. Similar to a VPN, this is a quick and minimal-hassle way to prevent and remove malware from your device and is one of the simplest ways to protect your data. Though security software is a must for computers, it's also becoming popular for tablets and mobile phones. For the best defense against malicious programs, make sure any antivirus tool you use is up-to-date.

Don't Click Links Sent by an Unknown Source

We're all aware of the threats that suspicious links can cause, but scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated with their approaches. Nowadays, it's no easy feat to distinguish between fraudulent and legitimate emails and texts as hackers work to emulate the interface and writing style of genuine companies. Don't click or open a message with a link or attachment unless you're certain it came from a trusted source. Furthermore, never provide your bank details if a linked page requests them.

Limit the Information You Share Online

Cybercriminals aren't the only people from whom we need to shield ourselves, as plenty of other malicious individuals operate on the net. Social media has become a part of everyday life for many of us, but sharing too much of ourselves online can lead to people we don't know gaining information about us. Keeping your profiles private is a great place to start. However, it's equally important to only accept friend requests from people you know. It's also recommended to keep the amount you share to a minimum. Should a friend's account get hacked, the perpetrator can access the data you've made available to those on your friend list.

Install Any Relevant Updates to Your Devices Right Away

It may not immediately come to mind as a means of maintaining safety online, but keeping up with the latest device updates can be very beneficial for your privacy and security. More often than not, software updates for your phone, tablet, or computer encompass additional or improved safety features. In general, older or outdated versions of such programs are less effective against viruses and other forms of malware. Moreover, as harmful software becomes more advanced, staying up to speed with the newest revisions is your best chance of staying safe.

Use These Practical Tips and Tricks to Stay Safe on the Web

Ensuring you stay vigilant about your online activity is paramount today, but it's also easier to do so than you might expect. By familiarizing yourself with common hacking techniques and online behaviors that may compromise your privacy, you can browse the net with more peace of mind.