Tips to Help You Keep Your Data Safe While Surfing the Web
From credit card fraud to extortion, corporate secrets theft, and identity theft, you have probably heard of a wide range of cybercrimes. The alarming fact is that, given the scope of the World Wide Web, they happen every day; only that not many of them are covered by the media. You can no longer be so sure you are safe when using the internet. But since you cannot entirely refrain from using the internet as a business or individual, the best you can do is to ensure your data safety when conducting activities online. With this put into perspective, here are some tips to help keep your data safe while surfing the web.
1. Have a Reliable Antivirus Program
Whenever accessing the internet, the first rule of thumb is to protect the device you are using. You can do this by using reliable internet security software, which detects most types of malware, viruses, and cyberattacks that could be used to steal your data. A reliable anti ransomware program protects your device from data leaks and online attacks that target your private information when surfing the web. An up-to-date antivirus program offers a vital layer of online security to any internet user.
2. Use Secure Connections Only
Secondly, restrict your internet usage to secure connections as much as possible. If you must use Wi-Fi or another public connection, it pays to ensure it is secure and that the provider is reputable. If you are unsure, you can consider a VPN connection, which masks your location identity and provides a barrier between your device and the server. Additionally, never provide critical and private information such as your bank account or credit card information when using such a connection.
3. Protect Your Passwords
As you might know by now, your private data is only as safe as the complexity of the password you choose for any online account or service. Complex passwords that are harder to guess even for people who are closest to you. Once you choose a complex password, make sure it is easy to memorize but unique to you.
Most experts recommend mixing alphabets with numbers and special characters. In case you have many passwords for different accounts, using a password manager can help cushion you from the frustration of having to cram and remember them all. All in all, avoid sharing your secret passcodes, especially for accounts that contain confidential information or private data.
4. Practice Safe Browsing
As you surf the web, it is not uncommon to come across pop-up pages that ask you to click, visit, or check out something. At times, you will also find some of these messages in your email inbox, some of them promising a reward of some kind. Take great caution before proceeding with the steps asked because more often than not, hackers use such dubious content to trick you into providing sensitive information. Other tips you can use to increase browsing safety and privacy include:
- Activate browser incognito mode (private browsing)
- Use an ad-blocker
- Clear cache and history after accessing the web at a cybercafé
- Block pop-ups
- Use a reputable browser
In summary, the internet can have numerous data safety loopholes, especially now that many people are staying and working from home. You may not have been targeted or affected in the past, but that doesn’t make you bullet-proof from cyber threats. The above few tips will hopefully help keep your data safe when surfing the web.
