How to stay safe and secure online
In this world of modern technology, most things can be done digitally or online; things like online shopping, online banking, food delivery, and so on. Because of the busy schedules, we find it very convenient to do online transactions. The best example is: instead of going to the grocery store to buy food, we either book a delivery food online or we purchase the items that we need through online stores.
And because of this, we have to make sure that whatever transaction we do online, we are extremely careful and vigilant. Why? Because, if the outside world has kidnappers, thief, and burglar… the online world also has them – the likes of scammers and hackers. They are the ones who are capable of stealing your personal information and even ask for money in return.
In this article, we will share with you the ways on how to stay safe and secure online.
1. Put a password on your accounts
It is important to choose a strong password in your accounts. It is a big NO-NO! to use your name or your birthday in your password since it can be easily guessed. Use a complex password but make sure that you can remember it easily. You can also use a password software or app where you can store it. The best example of a password vault is Lastpass. It is a free site to store all of your passwords.
2. Download apps and software from reputable or legitimate websites
Hackers and scammers are mostly found on websites. When you need to download an app or software, make sure that you are getting it from a legitimate website. If you think that the website seems suspicious or you are not familiar with, do not attempt to download it from there.
3. Log out – make it a practice!
Logging off from your computer, open sites or apps are very critical most especially if you are using a public computer like in computer shops or internet cafés. The high possibility of stolen information comes from this instance. Once you forgot to log out from the computer you have used and another person will use it, that person will gain access to websites that you have opened. Therefore, always remember to log off from your computer, sites, and open apps.
4. Make sure your network is secure
Hackers are mostly penetrating through your unsecured network system. It is highly recommended to install a firewall in your networking system to prevent unauthorized access on your network.
5. Do not share your location when using an unsecured network
If you are using a public network like in malls, schools, café’s, and etc. make sure not to open your bank accounts or other personal information. It is not advisable to make any form of transaction when using an unsecured or public network, especially if it will expose your personal information.
6. Shop wisely
Online shopping is very in-demand now because of the advantages that you are getting in it. You can shop at any store in your comfort. The convenience it is giving is why people are so into it. In online shopping, you don’t have to waste hours in line to make a payment, you don’t need to worry about traffic, and you can skip the crowded area just to shop. When doing online shopping, first you have to make sure that you are in a secured network and second, if there is an option for COD (cash on delivery) it is a lot better because you don’t have to input your credit card information which is an easy way for hackers to get it.
7. Never ever disclose your personal information to strangers
Facebook Messenger, Viber, WeChat, WhatsApp, and so on – these are just some of the online apps where you get a chance to meet new friends. Scammers are using fake profiles or accounts to make them believable and that’s the time they will attack you. If someone is offering you something that is “too good to be true”, think it over and do not get caught in their bait.
SUMMARY:
The only way to stay secure and safe online is to be very cautious in everything you do on the internet. Never ever share any of your personal information to people you do not know. Anything can be done online that is why bad people are also there conquering the internet world to do a bad thing.
As we always say “It is better safe than sorry.” Be vigilant and keep your information safe, secured and protected.
Should you have any questions about security, Jackson Technologies offers various programs that specialize in security, viruses, and etc. Contact us directly to find out what’s best and suitable for your network needs.
We can be reached (412) 853-3708 or send us an email to [email protected].
“We do I.T. so you don’t have to”