When you keep your valuables safe, you put them in a safety box. When you want to keep your home safe, you install a home security system and lock your doors and windows. But what should we do to keep our own selves safe online?
With cybercrimes, scams, malware, and hacks becoming increasingly common, the online world can feel like a dangerous place. And with the recent increase in the usage of technologically advanced devices, from smartphones and laptops to internet-connected appliances and smart cars, we are now at an even greater risk of being exposed to any sort of cybercrime.
The use of the internet has become so widespread that most of us can’t even fathom living without it. We heavily rely on the internet to enjoy social media, remote work, online education, streaming movies, and all sorts of online entertainment. People subscribe to high-speed internet connections like Hughesnet Internet to fulfill all their internet needs. But despite the extensive usage, it doesn’t mean there’s a widespread understanding of how to safely use the internet. For that, we have compiled a list of internet safety rules that will help you avoid getting into any trouble online.
- Create Hard and Complex Passwords
Creating unique and strong passwords for all your accounts including social media, emails, online banking applications, and even the system itself. It is the best way to keep your financial, social, and personal information safe. This is true in the era of extensive corporate hacks, where one hacking incident can expose a number of user passwords. You can use a password manager to create and store unique and strong passwords for all your accounts.
- Be a Selective Sharer
Nowadays, it is very easy to share your personal information online. You can do it via social media, email, and several other mediums. But you must stay cautious about what you share, especially about your identity information. It can potentially be used by hackers for identity theft and impersonation.
- Use a Firewall
You should use a firewall even if you believe your network is secure. It acts like an electronic barrier that stops unauthorized access to your devices and is commonly included in comprehensive security software. To make sure all the devices including computers, webcams, and smart thermostats are connected to a secured network use a firewall. It is essential because many internet devices aren’t equipped with security measures, which gives hackers and data thieves a vulnerable point of entry to your network.
- Practice Safe Surfing and Shopping
When surfing or shopping online make sure you check the site’s address before inputting any personal or financial information into it. The site address should have a padlock icon in the URL field and should start with HTTPS. It negates that the website is safe to surf through and it uses encryption to scramble your data so it can’t be intercepted.
- Keep Your Computer Updated
You must use all the latest versions of operating applications and systems. Especially if these applications contain your health, financial, and other personal information. Developers are persistently coming out with products to monitor the latest security threats and rolling out security patches that take care of all vulnerabilities. So, take into account all the security threats, regularly update your software and do your bit to keep yourself secure.
Our CISSP Online Training course is all about providing you with the support and mentorship throughout your study and exam preparation period.
Wrapping Up
Always be careful about your online activity, what you share on social networking websites, and which sites you visit. Make sure you backup your data on a regular basis and use comprehensive security software to stay safe. By following a few basic internet safety rules and taking the necessary preventive measures you can protect yourself from malware and identity theft.
