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The Best Security Practice in Staying Safe Online

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August 15, 2015

The Best Security Practice in Staying Safe Online

Security Practice: Cyberattacks have become a real nuisance for everyone, especially since they are on the rise. The attacks range from simple scams and phishing on social media, to high-profile assaults. For the average user, knowing security practice in surfing through the Net is a needed skill in order to survive in this ocean full of sharks and monsters. Everyone is susceptible, ranging from housewives to CEOs. People ask us for the best security practice, since everyone wants to know the top ways to keep their digital identity safe. Here are some tips that experts recommend for you and your family to follow:

Use unique passwords, not just “good” passwords. In fact, strong passwords are not enough. You should use unique password for each of your online accounts. If you fail to do so, you are leaving the door open for the cyberattacks. If one account is compromised, all the others will fall as well. The attacker can steal your personal and financial data, so change your password frequently and keep them unique across your online platforms.
Use two-factor authentication. A password isn’t enough. Sending a code to a secondary device during login will keep your accounts much safer. Google, Facebook, PayPal and other companies offer these features freely for your security.
Lock your passwords away if possible. Consider using services of a company which offers what’s called a lock-box; where you can store sensitive password data without fear of others getting to them. It can also be used to autofill an access form, so all you will need to remember is one password in order to access your password cache.
Use an antivirus program: There are a number of options on the market, both free and paid that will prevent your computer from downloading any viruses.
Update your system. If you decide to ignore update prompts, you are leaving your computer open to known vulnerabilities. So, patch the computer every time you are prompted to do so by the system as soon as possible.
Avoid suspicious offers. You`ve got an email from the Spanish lottery congratulating you on your win? It is certainly a way to lure you into a trap. These scams are called phishing campaigns. If you follow them, malicious software will capture your computer and your personal data will be lost in the process. Your bank account will be rinsed. Sometimes the fishers look exactly like legitimate websites. Always be wary of unexpected emails which seem to be giving you a stroke of good fortune.
Never send sensitive data across public Wi-Fi networks. They are insecure by nature. As we browse the Web from a café (or any other public place), we are exposed to hackers who constantly monitor free networks. They even can set up similarly-named hotspots in order to dupe you into connecting, allowing them to grab sensitive data including account information or your financial details. Keep in mind that public computers can have software which monitors your keystrokes as well.
Shared documents: Your garbage can be used to fake your identity, steal it, or potentially access your accounts.
Shop only at reputable websites: Counterfeit boutiques and fake websites which don’t originate from a reputable source can easily place your bank account at risk.
Finally, a good security practice is keep from divulging your personal data on social networks, but that’s a different issue altogether!