Essential Online Security Tips

Adopt these essential tips to protect your personal information, maintain your privacy, and navigate the internet safely.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords for Every Account

Using strong and unique passwords for each of your online accounts is your first line of defense. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.

Tip: Use a password manager like Bitwarden (my favorite) or 1Password to securely generate and store complex passwords. This way, you only need to remember one master password.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just a password and username but also something that only the user has on them, i.e., a piece of information only they should know or have immediately to hand, such as a physical token.

Tip: Enable 2FA on all accounts that support it, especially your email, social media, and banking accounts. Authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy are more secure than SMS-based 2FA.

Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but can be risky. They are often unsecured, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data.

Tip: Avoid accessing sensitive information like online banking or personal email on public Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection. Services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN are reliable options.

Keep Your Software Updated

Regular updates often include security patches that protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Keeping your software up to date ensures you have the latest protections.

Tip: Enable automatic updates on your devices and applications whenever possible. Regularly check for updates if automatic updates are not available.

Protect Your Personal Information on Social Media

Social media platforms can be a goldmine for cybercriminals looking to steal personal information. Be mindful of what you share and who can see your posts.

Tip: Review your privacy settings on social media accounts regularly. Limit the amount of personal information you share, and be cautious about accepting friend requests from people you don’t know.

Be Aware of Phishing Scams

Phishing scams attempt to trick you into providing personal information by pretending to be a legitimate entity. These scams can come in the form of emails, text messages, or websites.

Tip: Always verify the source of an unexpected message before clicking on any links or providing personal information. Look for signs of phishing, such as generic greetings, misspellings, and suspicious URLs. Use email security tools that offer phishing protection.

Warning: Never call phone numbers provided in browser alerts, emails, or text messages unless you can verify the source independently. Scammers often use these tactics to gain access to your personal information. Instead, contact the organization directly using a number you know is legitimate.

Warning: Be cautious of urgent requests or threats, such as claims that your account will be suspended if you don’t respond immediately. These are common tactics scammers use to pressure you into acting without thinking.

Warning: Don’t download attachments or software from unknown sources. Scammers often use malicious files to install malware on your device. If you’re unsure about a file, verify its legitimacy with the sender or simply don’t open it.

Use Secure Messaging Apps

Secure messaging apps encrypt your messages, making it difficult for anyone other than the intended recipient to read them. This is particularly important for sensitive communications.

Tip: Apps like Signal and WhatsApp offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your messages remain private.

Regularly Monitor Your Accounts

Regularly monitoring your financial and online accounts can help you quickly detect and respond to unauthorized activity. Early detection is key to minimizing the impact of a security breach.

Tip: Set up account alerts to notify you of suspicious activity. Review your bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized transactions. Consider using a credit monitoring service for additional peace of mind.

Secure Your Devices with a Strong Passcode

Your smartphone, tablet, and computer contain a wealth of personal information. Securing these devices with a strong passcode can prevent unauthorized access.

Tip: Use a passcode that is at least six digits long and avoid easily guessable codes like “123456” or “000000.” Enable biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, for added security.

Backup Your Data Regularly

Regular backups protect your data from being lost due to hardware failure, theft, or cyber-attacks like ransomware. Keeping backups ensures you can recover your information in case of an emergency.

Tip: Use cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for automatic backups. Additionally, consider keeping a physical backup on an external hard drive.

Implementing these online security practices can significantly enhance your digital safety and protect your personal information. Staying vigilant and proactive about online security is essential in today’s interconnected world. Subscribe to our newsletter to get more tips in your inbox each week.