The internet offers many opportunities to many people, but it can also be a dangerous place when browsing. Hackers are on the prowl looking for unsuspecting victims. With most financial transactions, taking place over the internet the risks of losing your hard-earned money online is high.
There are however some simple measures you can take to secure yourself online.
Network security
You will need a secure network to receive and send data. While your Wi-Fi router offers some form of encryption, this might not be enough to keep away sophisticated hackers. You are also faced with the option of free Wi-Fi which most of the time is unsecured. One way to protect your private connections is to invest in a Virtual Private Network. This will protect your private data from attacks. Selecting the Best VPN service providers is the first step towards protecting your Wi-Fi connections from man-in-middle attacks.
Simple Passwords
What makes it easy for hackers to gain access to your accounts is creating simple passwords based on your name or family names. Hackers use malware and viruses to gain access to your passwords. To keep hackers at bay, focus on creating complex passwords; these passwords should be more than six characters long, have both upper and lower case and use numbers and characters. Change your passwords occasionally. More secure passwords use biometrics like fingerprints or eye logins. Do not share your passwords with anyone and be on the lookout for sites that insist on you’re typing your personal details.
Unsecured downloads
There are numerous applications available online. Some of these are legit, but some are scams. You should avoid downloading apps from dubious sites. Responsible browsing means you are aware of what you are clicking. There are those moments that you are in rush or anxious to go to the next page and clicking on a particular page unlocks more features. Be careful when doing this.
Install anti-virus
Anti-Virus is a software that is specifically created to detect malware and viruses. You can install it on your desktop or mobile phone. Once installed it will carry out a scan to detect any viruses on your computer. The anti-virus will inform you when you click on dubious sites and will detect any phishing applications. You should keep your anti-virus up to date because hackers are becoming creative each day.
Exercise caution when opening emails
Most of the malware available online is distributed through email. The emails are often very creative and will often be promoting a specific product. However, when you click on the attachment malware is installed to your computer. Emails can come from various sources – it could be from colleagues and friends to you in putting your email so that you can be sent merchandise. Check on the company’s URLs and file extensions before forwarding your email address for promotions.
Two-factor verification
This takes your security to the next level. After you log in to a website and key in your password, you will often be sent a verification code which you use to log in again. The two-factor verification adds an extra layer of security which helps secure your details. The verification code can be sent to your phone or email address.
Installing an adblocker
This helps to make your online experience pleasurable by blocking any pop-up ads. You will notice a change in your loading times whenever you access websites with an adblocker in place. Most of the malware is often spread through pop-up ads. You should look for an adblocker that supports your browser.
Use a firewall
A firewall prevents authorized access to your computer. You can use it as an extra layer to your security after investing in a VPN service provider. The firewall ensures the security of all devices connected to your network. This can include smartphones, IoT and digital cameras. Some of these devices provide a loophole for hackers.
Customize your privacy settings
Most people browse using the default privacy settings that came with the device. These settings give minimal privacy, and you will need to go to settings and enhance your security settings. There plug ins available online that will help keep you protected from third-party adverts. Also, ensure that you have changed the App download settings for your smartphone. Most of the malware available online are often shared through the mobile phone.
Avoid open Wi-Fi
You will find open Wi-Fi connections whenever you visit a café or public place. The free Wi-Fi is great because you get a chance to download stuff online instead of using your cellular data – which at times is expensive. However, these connections are susceptible to attacks by hackers. Man-in-middle attacks intercept data sent and received. The hackers will gain access to your emails and passwords. Avoid public Wi-Fi and instead, use your cellular data for sending important documents.
Safe browsing for kids
It is also wise that you put filters to protect your kids from pornography and pedophiles. Kids are curious, and they may not be aware of the dangers of unregulated browsing. Instances of cyber-bullying are on the rise and one day you may discover that your child is a victim. To prevent this from happening monitor what your kids are doing online. Promote safe browsing by regulating the sites that they access online. You should note any change in behavior whenever your child is online. Smartphone addictions have become the leading source of addiction for kids. Inform your kids of the need to socialize the normal way. Video games are increasingly becoming more graphic and violent, and this has contributed to the degeneration of societal values. By placing filters on your children’s phones and laptops, you can promote responsible browsing.
Conclusion
The internet has brought great changes in how we interact with our gadgets. We are increasingly doing most of our purchases online, and this exposes our personal financial details to theft. To protect yourself begin by installing anti-virus on your mobile phone and computer. Use a VPN provider to protect your private network from attacks. Lastly, be cautious when opening suspicions emails – especially those with attachments.
