Avoid Bad Habits That Put Your Online Security At Risk
The World Wide Web is now indispensable, with pretty much everyone taking advantage of its benefits daily, whether you are a fashionable guy looking for the latest outfit or running an e-commerce clothing brand. However, many of us are guilty of a few bad habits online. In my latest post, I will share how you can protect yourself from these dangerous practices in order to enjoy a safe journey across the web. Carry on reading to find out more.
In the UK, the average person spends over four hours online every day, and as such, your safety and security should always be a priority (whether you use a smartphone, tablet, or laptop).
However, bad habits could lead to account loss, cybercrime, and much more.
Using the Same Weak Passwords
For many accounts, the password is the sole element that prevents unauthorised access, and using the same details for multiple accounts puts you at a higher risk.
All it takes is one compromised login and a handful of lucky guesses to expose all of your linked accounts. In these cases, you could expose your personal information and payment details to attack.
Similarly, weak passwords are equally as dangerous—avoid significant dates (Birthdays, Anniversaries, etc.), names, or anything that is easily connected and traceable to you. Instead, choose strong and unique passwords for all of your accounts (especially important platforms such as banking, social media, and email).
Always include upper and lowercase letters, numbers, special characters and symbols.
Utilising a password manager can help you to keep track of all of your unique logins. Additionally, two-factor authentication (2FA) should be considered wherever possible, as it can be a vital added layer of defence.
Ignoring Security Updates
Almost every device with an internet connection requires regular software updates. Developers create these essential amendments to fix software bugs and, more importantly, address critical security flaws.
If you ignore these updates, you are putting your devices and data at severe risk. Make it a practice to download the latest software updates when they become available (you will often receive notifications or pop-ups when they are released).
Alternatively, you can find them on your device or account settings. Once installed, these updates will help maintain your cybersecurity and keep everything running smoothly and safely.
Connecting To Public Wi-Fi Networks Without Protection
As a general rule of thumb, public Wi-Fi networks are usually unsecured, lacking the fundamental security protocols otherwise active in secured networks.
Additionally, unencrypted servers can expose you to man-in-the-middle and malware attacks, revealing your sensitive information and compromising your devices without you even knowing anything is wrong.
It is key to use protection when ensuring safety on a public Wi-Fi service. Installing a VPN app on your tech can shield your internet activity from malicious sites and hackers. In layman’s terms, your traffic will effectively pass through an encrypted tunnel from your smartphone or laptop to the VPN servers. With your IP changed, you will be far less vulnerable to attacks from cybercriminals.
Clicking Without Thinking
It can be very tempting to instantly click on a link in an email or direct message (especially if you think that you know the sender). However, you should always think twice before interacting with anything you have been sent or encountered online.
The most common attacking methods are phishing attempts and social engineering scams, which continue to advance with more elaborate methods and schemes each day.
As a general rule of thumb, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is (especially on the Internet).
In order to protect yourself effectively, be sure to verify any messages you receive (with links, offers, deals, and especially requests to change your details) and new websites (rather than the standard popular sites) you visit.
Will you be taking advantage of the advice in my latest lifestyle article? Please share your thoughts below.
