The Internet has become a basic need for people around the world. We can do a lot of things on the internet, from ordering transportation online, food, buying goods in online stores, and also to work. Although Surfing the Internet is relatively simple, there are many complicated threats out there waiting to be clicked on.
In order to be safe online, here are the top 10 safety do’s and don’ts that you should always remember.
What You Should Do
Limit Personal Information ✅
By sharing your personal information with the public, you are at risk of compromising your daily routine, location, and many more.
You have to know that identity theft is real. With more information you put on the net, the chance of getting your identity copied by the cybercriminal is higher.
A lot of people have been a victim to this. You don’t want to be next.
Stay away from Fishy Clickbait ✅
When surfing the internet, notice that a lot of websites showcase pop-up ads that can bait you to click on it. Clicking on clickbait ads is dangerous because it can lead to potential viruses breaching your computer.
Be more cautious about what you read and click on the internet. Verify the information especially where the links take you, even they look highly interesting.
Use Anti-virus Software and Update regularly ✅
This is the most primary safety protocol you should implement on your work and personal computer. There are many choices for this type of software.
Start from the free app that offers basic security features, and up to maximum security features that require you to pay. Also, make sure to consider malware protection for more secure web browsing.
Make Strong Passwords ✅
Passwords play an important role to protect your data online. Whether it be for your personal email, shopping account, social media profiles, you need to make strong passwords.
Some websites suggest you to include alphanumeric and special character. However, not all websites offer this. Remember, when creating your password you’re protecting your personal information.
Enable Two-factor Authentication ✅
“Two Factor Authentication, or 2FA, is an extra layer of protection used to ensure the security of online accounts beyond just a username and password.”
Authy.com
With 2FA it will be more difficult for the criminals to access your account, because it require two pieces of evidence to verify the authenticity of the owner. If a website offer this, you should take advantage of it.
Don’t do This
Allow Websites to Remember Password and Username ❌
With the website remember your username and password, it is more efficient since it’s faster and not time consuming. But, it is best to avoid this.
Anyone that has access to your computer, laptop, or smartphone can just easily logged in to your account since it’s all stored in cookies.
Download Unknown Software ❌
When surfing the internet, you may stumbled and be tempted to download the “free” version of software, which is commonly pirated, don’t!.
Downloading this kind of software from shady or spoofed websites can put your computer and data at risk of infection from a virus or even ransomware.
Use same Password for Different Websites ❌
Imagine a house with multiple locks but only having one key to open all rooms. If a burglar gets hold of that single key, all of your rooms can be opened simply.
This applies to password protection too. Learn to mix it up so the potential scammers won’t take all your account.
Use One Email for Everything ❌
Email is essential for signing up on websites. But, what if an online criminal compromises your one email? The email you use for social media, bank account and more?
Making multiply email would be smart to have a back-up plan, so you can still recover important data.
Store Personal Card Details on Websites ❌
If you like to buy things online, it would not be wise to store your card details on websites.
The more data you store on sites, the greater the chance of identity theft, should a data breach occur. More Here
