How to Protect Yourself Online.

 

We all like the internet and use it for various purposes. Statistics also show that the number of

active users on the internet continues to rise. Coincidentally, security risks associated with the

internet also are rising. In fact, it is common to hear about cyber attacks, phishing scams, and

identity theft. This article aims to provide light on what you can do to protect yourself while

online.

1.Always Use Strong Passwords

Passwords are the easiest way to protect yourself. Why? This is because a password is only

known to you. This makes it hard for anyone with malicious intentions to try and access your

social media accounts or other vital information. When choosing a password, always go for

something which is not obvious. This means selecting a password that is not related to your

names, children or spouse or phone number. It is recommended to use letters, numbers and

special characters. A modern strong password should use a combination of both upper and

lowercase alphanumeric values together with special characters. Another good tip is to never

share your password with anyone.

2. Avoid Phishing Scams

As stated earlier, there are malicious individuals who pry on unsuspecting internet users to try

and steal their information and identity through some cunning means. You can however be able

to identify a scam a mile away using some tips. Never open emails or attachments from

unknown senders and avoid clicking on unsecure links from new unknown emails.Remember

also, there are numerous adverts purporting to offer money if you sign up for something or

sometimes you may get offered job opportunities which seem too good to be true. Many

phishing scams usually are detectable if they ask you for your information for sign up.

3. Enable Cookies when Browsing

We all are familiar with the experience of being offered cookies. In this case, not the actual

cookies rather some other cookies. When browsing online and you happen to visit a website

that requires you to accept cookies in order to continue to the website, it is advisable you do so.

Cookies are detailed website stores on your computer, including information about what sites

you visit and what you do there. Enabling cookies only limits who has access to your

information.

4. Protect Your Credit Card Information

Another option for configuring your browser to protect your online data is to enable cookies only

when requested by a website. These cookies are detailed websites that are stored on your

computer, including information about the sites you visit and what you do there. Most of them keep the details to themselves, but it is also a way for dishonest people to get your information. You want

cookies to be enabled, but limit them only to websites that need them.

5. Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication requires that you verify your identity after signing in using your username

and password. In some cases, you will be asked to verify your identity by entering a code sent by

text or email. You will need to answer a security question. Whenever two-factor authentication is

available, enable it. It may take a few extra seconds to sign in to your accounts, but it can reduce the

likelihood that other people will be able to sign in to yours as well.

6. Don't click on strange unknown links

If you receive a strange-looking link (for example, it may contain typos) from a trusted friend

or family member, contact them to ask if the link you received was sent on purpose.

Viruses and other forms of malware often spread because you click on a link

from someone you know.You might have to wait a bit to watch this funny viral video, but

it's better to be safe than sorry.

7. Avoid using Unsecure/Open Public Wifi

Try to avoid accessing unsecured public Wi-Fi networks on your devices. Its use can make

you vulnerable to predatory practices. And if you must use it, avoid entering compromising

information, such as your social security number or financial information, on a website.

Better yet, use a VPN, or virtual private network, to browse when you're away from home.

This will encrypt the data you send and receive, making interception much more difficult.

After going through all these tips, it can appear that staying safer online is a challenge. It

does not necessarily have to be that way. One golden rule is to treat people online as you

would in person and always remember that all that glitters is not gold. This means you

would not give out your valuable information to a stranger or even give them access to your

credit card. By following these guidelines you a guaranteed to be safe online