It has always been essential to protect yourself online. However, in the wake of big data collection, the fact that privacy is getting harder to come by and ransomware viruses like the Hitler virus that can hold your computer’s content ransom– staying safe online is even more important.
Listed below are 5 security tips that can help you stay safe online:
1. Turn on two-factor authentication for your email, social media accounts and anywhere else that allows for two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security for your email as well as for your desktop and phone apps.
2. Be careful what you share. It’s not uncommon to share a photo on Instagram or Facebook and be prompted to also share your location. Always be aware of what you share online, your privacy settings and the people you are sharing that information with.
3. Simplify your browser. Uninstall any unnecessary plugins and plugins that are very out of date (they may have been abandoned by the developer). Only use extensions that you trust. Some extensions and plugins may contain spyware or keylogging.
4. Keep software up-to-date. Make sure all software on your computer, including any browsers you have installed are always kept up-to-date. Regular software updates often include security patches or new features that offer extra security. Out-of-date software is more vulnerable to attacks.
5. Protect your phone. It’s always a good idea to add some protection to your phone. Many phones come equipped with the ability to set a PIN code, fingerprint scan, pattern or face-recognition to the lock screen of the phone so that others can’t get into it.