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There are no less than 10 ways in which you can improve your online safety and they’re all FREE to use and apply.
You’ll be surprised of the things you can do to better secure your data! All it takes is spending some time reading the right things and adjusting a few settings.
Applying these security tips feels just as good as digging into a plate of hot, fluffy, syrupy pancakes. Seriously, you have to try it!
Cyber Security Tip #1: How to be realistic about your online presence
Understand that you’re an attractive target for cyber criminals.
If you have money (doesn’t matter how much), data (usernames, passwords, documents, emails, etc.) or a place to work, you’re going to be targeted.
It’s not even personal, as cyber criminals automate most of their attacks.
Don’t ever say “it can’t happen to me.”
Cyber Security Tip #2: The basics of safe online shopping
Online shopping safety: never do it from a device that isn’t yours or on a network you don’t own.
Your data could be copied and harvested by cyber criminals.
Make sure you’re the only one spending your money by:
- Using safe network
- Employing strong passwords (password managers FTW!)
- Being careful about which websites you shop at
- Never saving your card details in an online account
- Verifying your transactions weekly to make sure there’s nothing fishy going on.
Cyber Security Tip #3: Should you plug that in?Think Twice.
Careful on what you plug into your computer.
Never use a USB whose source you don’t know! It can be infected with malware that can even resist formatting.
Don’t let curiosity get the best of you.
Cyber Security Tip #4: Who’s that friend request from?
Facebook friends or foes?
Cyber criminals often create fake profiles to befriend you. The ultimate goal is to get you to leak confidential data to them (either about you or the company you work for). Be careful of the friend requests you accept.
Trust no Facebook friend (unless you know them in real life and you’re absolutely, positively sure they can be trusted).
Cyber Security Tip #5: How to protect your passwords in real life
Who’s looking over your shoulder?
Did you know that bystanders or co-workers can steal your passwords only by peeking at what you’re typing?
This is especially true is your passwords are as easy as 123456 (please change them if it’s the case).
Take a look around and make sure everything’s safe before typing a password. Also: NEVER share your passwords. Ever.
Cyber Security Tip #6: You still need antivirus (yes, really)
Get protection for your connection!
Do a bit of research and choose an antivirus you trust.
Paid is better than free.
Antivirus is still very necessary, so don’t skip it.
Cyber Security Tip #7: Get your 2-FA on
Use 2-factor authentication everywhere
you can Set it up to receive authentication codes via sms or on an authenticator app.This is really advisable for you to have total control of any of your accounts
Cyber Security Tip #8: Keep it in check
Check your bank statements on a weekly basis (your online banking can help you do that easily).
Look for suspicious activity and, if any, alert your bank, change all passwords related to that account and make sure to activate every security measure available.
Cyber Security Tip #9: Lock it up
Never leave your laptop/smartphone/tablet unlocked while you’re away.
Don’t make it so easy for anyone to get into your system.
Set up a password for your account asap (it’ll only take 2-3 minutes).
Cyber Security Tip #10: How to protect what matters
Prioritize your most sensitive accounts.
Here’s a quick list:
- Online banking / Paypal
- Amazon / other ecommerce website you use
- Any account where you’ve put in your card details
- Any account that has sensitive info (social security number, address, phone no., etc.).
Secure them with strong passwords + two-factor authentication.
Make it as difficult as possible for anyone other than yourself to access them.
Be a cyber security ninja!
