How to Boost Your Digital Security for Peace of Mind
Personal security is more important than ever, because to recent Facebook data breaches and data breaches at large organizations like FedEx and Delta.
In reality, it may appear like our data is being attacked!
While data security concerns cannot always be avoided, there are 12 steps you can do to assist safeguard yourself in this fast-paced digital age:
1. Stop transmitting private information over the internet. Although it may seem obvious, many individuals send tax papers to their accountant or SMS a password to a family member in an emergency.
2. Public Wi-Fi should be avoided at all costs. Anyone on the same network can intercept everything you send in a coffee shop or airport. When you’re out and about, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
3. Keep your texts safe. There are several end-to-end encryption alternatives available, whether you use a free software like WhatsApp or a commercial Android or iOS solution. This ensures that only you and the receiver view messages.
4. Maintain a current knowledge base. You might be vulnerable to malware, infections, and cybercrime if you don’t. Make sure your operating system and applications are up to date; many gadgets will do this for you.
5. Don’t be concerned about wifi. Secure your wireless network with a password so that no one can access it and steal information.
6. Be wary of sophisticated email fraudsters. Today’s phishing emails may contain links to websites that appear to be legitimate. If you’re sending passwords or other sensitive information over email, text, or phone, make sure you’re talking to the right people.
7. Shut off your computer. Check to see whether your laptop asks for a password when it starts up. That way, if it’s stolen or someone tries to break into your device, they’ll be stopped in their tracks.
8. Delete any data that has been stored. If you’re in the market for a new laptop or smartphone, make sure your information isn’t left behind. Use a software program to permanently erase your hard drive once you’ve backed up any data you need.
9. Use caution when selecting security questions. When creating passwords, stay away from using words that are commonly used. Period. According to Google, answering “pizza” to the question “What’s your favorite food?” has a 19.7% chance of success. Make your questions more difficult to guess by customizing them.
10. Stay away from non-https sites. “Hypertext transfer protocol with secure socket layer” is what https stands for (otherwise known as having a SSL certificate.) If you are requested to make a purchase or submit private/sensitive data that might be intercepted, sites without a “s” at the end are not secure.
11. Be aware of your privacy settings. Who can see the content you publish on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, as well as who may visit your profile, is up to you.
Choose the maximum amount of privacy possible, but keep in mind that some settings can prohibit potential clients from viewing your postings, so strike a good medium that won’t jeopardize your social media marketing efforts!
12. Make a backup of your data. What happens to that job report or your niece’s baby pics if your gadget is stolen or compromised? Automatic backups can be set up using your operating system or a cloud service. While even the most well-funded businesses may be hacked or otherwise targeted, these internet security practices can help you mitigate some of the dangers.
Also, if you’re employing a web professional developer to assist you with your company, make sure they’re up to date on current security threats. We develop websites with our clients’ safety in mind, and we keep them secure with frequent security upgrades.
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