The internet has changed lots of things in our lives. Unfortunately, it also provides plenty of opportunities for criminals to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals and steal their identities, money, or data from them through hacking. To protect yourself from these cyber-criminals, it’s important to stay aware of the basic ways they can target you through the internet, and what you can do to minimize that risk. Use these tips to learn how you can keep yourself safe from hackers on the internet.
Before we dive into the tips that will keep you safe from hackers, be mindful if you have an online business about these tricks hackers use to shut down your online platform.
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1. Invest in a VPN
When you use a virtual private network (VPN), it creates an encrypted connection between your computer and one of its servers. Since no one else can access it, even if hackers do manage to break into your computer, they won’t be able to see any of your personal or financial information.
VPNs are especially useful when you’re using public Wi-Fi networks; they help keep all your traffic secure as you connect. Just remember that not all VPNs are created equal. Some may have weak encryption or be run by untrustworthy companies with bad security practices, so make sure you research yours before buying!
2. Use strong passwords, don’t re-use them, and change them often
If a hacker gains access to your online accounts, he could wreak havoc on your financial situation. Use strong passwords and change them frequently. Don’t use obvious passwords like your name or birth date. Make up a mnemonic like your favorite quote or song lyrics. If you’re using an authentication app, make sure it has two-factor authentication set up for every account that offers it. Always log out of your online accounts when you’re done with them.
3. Don’t click suspicious links, attachments, or Ads
Most phishing attacks are carried out via email, so it’s important not to click on any suspicious links or attachments no matter how authentic they seem. Unless you absolutely know and trust that person, don’t follow a link from an email message especially if you don’t recognize who sent it.
Although many well-known companies now include images of their logos in emails as a security measure, there are still plenty of fake emails that don’t include company branding at all so be cautious. Hackers customize attachments for you, which might seem authentic. Do not open them, just ignore them. By opening the attachment or tapping the link, you will have given the hacker access to your platform. This does not apply to emails only but to all social media platforms.
ALSO READ: The 4 Things You Should Never Do on the Internet
4. Keep all devices updated with the latest software
It seems obvious, but keeping your computer and mobile devices up-to-date with operating system (OS) updates is one of the most basic things you can do to protect yourself from cyber-attacks. Even if you’re not a tech expert, it’s easy to find out which OS version is installed on your device by checking.
It’s also a good idea to install antivirus apps, which are designed specifically for mobile devices, in order to monitor and protect them. If you have an older phone that isn’t compatible with these security apps, consider buying a new one.
5. Only use public wifi networks you trust completely
Public wifi networks are not secure by nature. That’s true whether you’re connecting at a coffee shop, an airport, or your neighbor’s home. To stay safe on public wifi networks, always assume that anyone else connected can see all of your activity but don’t be paranoid about it.
If there’s information you mind being seen by others such as a word document then proceed with caution and use a VPN service to shield your sensitive data.
6. Keep your guard with people you meet online
As more people move their socializing online, we need to be ever more vigilant with whom we interact. It’s much easier than you think for an identity thief or fraudster to get in touch with you and pretend to be someone else. That’s why it’s important not only to keep your guard up when meeting new people online but also to make sure you have good tools in place that can help protect you from bad actors.
We encourage you never to send financial information, such as credit card or Social Security numbers, through email, no matter how convincing a request may seem. The same goes for sharing links; don’t do it!
ALSO READ: How to Fix “WiFi Connected But No Internet” on your Android TV
7. Mind what you post
Posting too much personal information about yourself on social media can make you an easy target for hackers. There are lots of ways that people can use your data in an unsecured way by hacking into social networking sites, or perhaps by eavesdropping on open wireless connections.
As part of staying safe from online security risks, it’s important to remember that if you don’t want everyone to know something, don’t post it online! Make sure your Wi-Fi password is protected and strong; remember that not all encryption is secure.
8. Only buy from trusted online stores
When you’re out and about, take a look at a website before giving them your credit card information. Many websites now have HTTPS: in front of their web address, meaning that information is encrypted. That gives you more confidence because it means hackers can’t see what you’re typing in or what you are viewing online while they are trying to steal your personal information.
But websites that don’t have HTTPS: in front of their web address will not be encrypted, which makes them easier for hackers to access and attempt to steal your personal data.
Conclusion
It’s impossible to stay 100% safe from hackers. They are constantly updating their tactics and research has shown that it can take up to 6 months before companies are aware of a new type of threat online. The best defense against these threats is staying informed and knowledgeable. Knowing your basic security practices and being able to recognize how you could be targeted will give you a leg up in staying safe online, no matter what happens. It’s also a good idea for every web user to have an antivirus installed on any device they use regularly; keeping your software updated is a must as well.