Similar to locking the door to keep your possessions safe safeguarding yourself online requires consistent behavior and good security practices. We’ve put together a list of basic security tips for the internet to ensure that you and your family be secure and keep hackers at bay.
The process of updating browsers, software, and apps is the most effective method to fight malware and viruses. It is also advisable to employ a password management tool that can create and store strong passwords for all your accounts.
It’s not a good idea sharing excessive amounts of information on social media, especially when it involves sensitive or personal information. Be sure to check your privacy settings to be aware of who is watching your posts. It’s also important to avoid posting images or information that can be used by identity thieves or other criminals.
Malicious hyperlinks in emails tweets, texts, and other posts and messages (also known as malvertising) are a popular method for cybercriminals to steal your personal information and access your devices. If you find a suspicious link in an email message, count backwards from five before clicking. This will help you determine if the link is legitimate.
Avoid shopping or other transactions that are private whenever possible on Wi-Fi networks accessible to the public. These networks are not always secure, leaving your device and data susceptible. If you are required to shop or conduct private transactions on a public network, consider using a VPN. Also, always make sure to backup your devices and all the data on them regularly. This will ensure that in the event of an attack does occur you have a backup of the data that you can restore.