In today’s world, technology has made the world a global village… thanks to the internet. From social interaction to buying stuff, studying, getting entertainment, and doing business, you can literally do almost anything you want online at the comfort of your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. But every good thing doesn’t lack some challenges, right?
With the widespread cases of online hacks, malware, scams, and more, the internet can be a risky place nowadays. Surfing the internet without proper online safety measures puts the security of your devices, data, and your identity at a huge risk. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure you carry out all your online activities securely and safely.
Also, now that most of the learning activities have shifted online, kids are probably spending most of their time online. Since children can be an easy target for hacking, parents would want to ensure their kids’ online activities are safe enough. A good parent will also love to monitor what their kids are reading or watching online to protect them from stuff that can poison their morals and behavior.
But the big question is, how safe are you online? The following piece article is going to highlight what you need to know about staying safe online. Starting with the significance of online privacy to business, let’s get the ball rolling!
Why Businesses Should Mind Online Security?
Most businesses with operations online have one thing in common. They store a significant amount of client data, some of which is personal. This is especially true for eCommerce stores and sites where money transactions are conducted. It is important to note that if a client is robbed of their money or identity while using or transacting through your site, they reserve the right to sue your company. This is among the reasons why internet lawyers are increasingly gaining demand these days. They can help such entrepreneurs to ensure their online operations are safe and secure, so they can avoid costly lawsuits and other blunders with legal implications. They also provide a wide range of legal services relating to internet businesses.
-
Always Use Unique Passwords for Every Login
Look, if you use the same password in most of your online accounts, then you are risking your online safety. In fact, it is one of the easiest ways hackers can steal your data. Hackers can get a batch of login credentials such as usernames and passwords from one of your sources and try them in your other online accounts. Just like that, you could fall victim to cybercrime if your logins aren’t unique. For instance, a hacker can get your username and password by hacking an email provider then try logging in into major online shopping stores or banking sites using your credentials.
Therefore, that’s why we emphasize using strong and unique usernames and passwords for each and every online account. Also, you may consider getting reputed password manager software. With a good password manager app, you don’t have to remember all other passwords. You just need to set one strong master password. When you log in, the master password unlocks all your other online accounts securely and safely.
-
Get a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
With a VPN, you are safe every time connected to the internet using a Wi-Fi network. Insecure networks are one of the ways hackers can target and attack you online. Let’s say you are having your coffee at your local coffee shop that offers free Wi-Fi. In such a situation, since you may not know anything about the security of that Wi-Fi connection, then you might be subjecting yourself to cybersecurity risks. You never know, someone could be connected to the same network and stealing or snooping on the data files you sent from your device.
However, using a strong VPN comes in handy. It encrypts all your internet traffic, routing it via a VPN company’s server. That way, nobody can snoop on your data, not even the Wi-Fi network owner. A VPN also hides all your IP addresses, so even advertisers or trackers won’t be able to track down your geolocation.
-
Install a Strong Antivirus and Keep it Updated
With a strong software antivirus, you don’t have to worry about any attacks from malicious software that may put your device and data files. For example, without a reliable antivirus, you are risking your device and data to ransomware, which could encrypt your crucial data and then demand payments to reinstate it back. Additionally, an effective antivirus will protect you against Trojan horse programs that may feel legit but instead aiming after stealing your confidential information. Another thing, while there are many different free or cheap software antiviruses, remember, cheap can always be expensive. You can do better than that. Getting a full security suite antivirus goes a long way, you can always rest assured your devices and data security is always on point.
-
Avoid Falling Prey to Clickbait
While online, you should be keen enough on what you click. In fact, some catchy headline clickbait might be intended to trick you into providing them with your confidential credentials without knowing. Also, particular clickbait might be having the links to emails or any other messaging apps as phishing links. Avoid clicking suspicious links, especially in text messages, emails, and browser popups.
Most of us conduct a wide range of activities online each day. Many people even depend on the internet to put food on the table. However, you just need to ensure you are safe online, and the above tips can help.
