Cybercrime is a growing threat as so many aspects of our lives move online. Online shopping, banking, and more could put your data at risk. However, you can take a few steps to protect yourself and control your online security.
Create Strong (And Different!) Passwords
Think of your passwords like the locks on your front door. A weak password is like leaving it open for anyone to get in.
- Make it secure: Aim for at least 15 characters. Use a combination of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid the obvious: Don’t use personal information like birthdays or pet names.
- Uniqueness is key: Don’t reuse passwords across different accounts. Remembering complex passwords can be tricky, so consider using a password manager – a secure app that stores your passwords for you.
Use a VPN
Imagine browsing the internet in a crowded coffee shop. Anyone could potentially see what you’re doing. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, creating a secure virtual tunnel between your device and other servers. This means even if someone is snooping on your connection, they won’t be able to see your activity.
VPNs are particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi. Download a VPN that allows you to run a DNS leak test to ensure your connection is always truly private.
Install Software Updates
Do you keep ignoring update notifications? Well, they can be crucial for your online security. Software updates often contain patches that fix vulnerabilities and make it harder for hackers to exploit them.
- Enable automatic updates: Most devices allow you to set automatic updates. Take advantage of this feature.
- Update everything: And we mean everything. This includes your operating systems, web browsers, apps, and even your router’s firmware.
Back-Up Your Data
A cyberattack could mean you lose all your precious photos, documents, and emails – as well as personal or financial data. Regularly backing up ensures you always have a copy.
- Choose a backup method: There are many options available. Whether you opt for an external hard drive or cloud storage, pick one that suits your needs.
- Automate backups: Schedule regular backups to ensure you don’t accidentally miss one.
- Test your backups: It’s important to occasionally test your backups so you know they work properly.
Learn How to Spot Scams
Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated at creating scams. These are often designed to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
- Be Wary of Urgency: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking.
- Check the Sender: Is the email address legitimate? Does it look like a misspelling of a well-known company?
- Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: If you’re unsure about a link, hover over it with your mouse, and you’ll see the actual URL before clicking.
- If in Doubt, Throw It Out: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to delete suspicious emails.
Browse With Confidence
By following these tips, you can significantly improve your online security and browse the web safely.
Remember, staying informed is key. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is a great resource for the latest advice.
