“Cybersecurity” is a relatively new term in our increasingly connected world that broadly describes the processes and efforts used to protect digital data. Although it’s important for big companies that need to safeguard confidential information like client account details, it’s equally as crucial for individuals. Just as you keep your physical personal assets like your Social Security card and checkbook somewhere safe, protecting your privacy online requires caution and vigilance.
5 Online Safety Facts
Keep these key facts in mind to minimize your risks:
1. Social media can be a pitfall
Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat have many benefits for keeping in touch with loved ones and documenting important moments in our lives. But while on the surface, posting about a new job or family vacation may seem harmless, unfortunate dangers can lurk behind our selfies and statuses.
Avoid sharing identifying details about yourself, such as your full birth date or pictures with IDs like your driver’s license or passport. You should also steer clear of “copy and paste” posts that encourage you to share fun facts about yourself, like your pet’s name and where you went to junior high school. Often, these seemingly innocent trends are a ploy by scammers to learn potential answers to the security questions for your various logins and can be used to break into your accounts,
2. Public Wi-Fi can leave you exposed
It can be tempting to hop on the guest Wi-Fi at your local coffee shop or the gym when you’re out and about, but these public networks are rarely secure. Though convenient, they typically lack security measures and can leave you vulnerable to hackers who can easily track your internet activity.
Don’t download content, click on pop-ups, share files, or use an unfamiliar hotspot when you’re on the go. Never access sensitive material while on a public network, such as by logging into your bank account, and avoid sending communications like emails or texts over the connection, especially if they contain personal details about yourself or others.
3. You shouldn’t put off that software update
Updating your devices can be annoying and time-consuming, but keeping them safe and in good working order is necessary. These updates can often contain important new security features or correct vulnerabilities in your operating system, so it’s best not to stall them.
When you notice your phone or computer prompting you to verify a new update, try to do so as soon as possible. Changing your settings to allow automatic updates can save you the trouble of remembering to check for them.
4. Scamming techniques are more sophisticated than ever
Thanks to revolutions in technology like artificial intelligence, scams are constantly evolving. You may think you’re wised up to traditional hacking schemes that use old-school strategies, but the reality is that some methods are nearly imperceptible these days. Many use social engineering to trick people into revealing information that is then used to commit cybercrimes.
To outsmart these ruses, beware of fraudulent tactics such as phishing, in which scammers impersonate a trusted institution to elicit information, or clickbait that uses fake but interesting headlines or imagery to trick curious users into opening a dangerous link. If you suspect a scam, you can and should report it to relevant authorities like the Federal Trade Commission.
5. Data breaches happen WAY more than you think
Organized data attacks are on the rise as large organizations fall prey to cybercriminals capable of exploiting thousands of customers’ personal information and credentials. The good news is that companies are legally required to report such breaches to affected parties so that they take the necessary action to minimize the impact, but prevention is also important.
Change the logins to your accounts frequently to keep unauthorized users out, and use strong passwords that incorporate a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters so they are not easy to guess.
Tools that can help keep you safe
In addition to knowing the above facts, there are a few other measures you can take to protect your online info, including:
- VPN: A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service that helps keep your data hidden and secures your connection, even if you’re on public Wi-Fi. Not only that but a VPN can be used to alter your virtual location so that you can access content that may be restricted in your geographical area. For example, you can use a VPN to safely unblock Twitter (now “X”) or other apps while traveling outside of your home country.
- Multi-factor authentication: Also known as “MFA,” multi-factor authentication is when an account requires more than one form of identity verification to access content. This creates a failsafe for your data by adding layers of security.
- Malware protection programs: Specialized software is also useful for defending against cyber attacks. You can get simple browser add-ons to protect you on the internet or subscribe to a robust program for your whole device.
- Privacy screens: A physical panel that attaches directly to your electronic display, these handy inventions create a filter so that you are the only one who can see your screen. This ensures anyone else will notice nothing but a darkened or blurred screen, protecting your sensitive information from nosey ne’er-do-wells.
Final Words
Practicing good cyber habits is essential to protecting yourself against fraud and scams. Though the ever-looming threat of cybercriminals can be intimidating, know that you can maximize your safety and protect your information online by taking the appropriate steps and understanding what risks are out there. By studying the above facts and investing in the right tools, you can stay connected confidently and easily. And don’t forget to share these tips with your friends and family so they can stay safe, too!
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