A recent security scare involving a security breach at Hollywood movie studios was embarrassing for many, but it also provided insight into how to stay safe on the internet. According to the Hollywood studios, hackers accessed computers used by several employees and made copies of the most confidential information. The hackers gained access to Hollywood studios’ information through an unsecured wireless network used by several employees. There are steps you can take to protect your computer while surfing and staying safe on the internet.
The same goes for keeping your kids safe on social media sites, given how abundantly they use these in their day-to-day lives. Additionally, you also need to be wary of the fact that someone could be spying on your phone. This guide dives into the various ways in which you can keep yourself safe on the internet. Read on to find out more.
Create Strong Passwords
Creating a strong password is one of the best ways to keep your private information safe when surfing. Passwords provide security for your computer by ensuring that only you can log onto a computer. Suppose a website asks for your personal or financial information, such as your social security or credit card numbers. In that case, it is recommended that you do not make this type of information available to the public. You should also use a strong password and change it often. A strong password combined with a complex password algorithm is one of the most secure forms of passwords.
Only Use Websites That You Know and Trust
Another way to keep your private information safe online is to limit your browsing to websites that you know. If you use a website that’s frequented by most internet users, you can be certain that other members of the public will have access to this type of private information. If possible, you should only visit websites that you know and trust. This does not mean that you need to spend all of your time at these websites, but it is important to limit your exposure to any websites that could be questionable.
Use an Anti-Malware Program
Do not trust just any anti-malware software. When surfing on the internet, you need to be especially careful about what you are downloading. Some free anti-malware programs are riddled with viruses that can cause serious problems for your computer. These viruses can steal personal information from your computer. Unfortunately, many people do not realize that they have been infected with a virus while using free anti-malware software. You may end up having to spend money to fix the problem.
To keep your anti-malware program running smoothly, you will also want to keep up with it. Your anti-malware program needs to be updated regularly. You can do this by purchasing or downloading an update for your anti-malware software. It is also suggested that you take your anti-virus program with you when you go to different sites. By doing this, you can ensure that the anti-virus software has a fresh anti-malware scan and can provide you with the latest protection.
Make Use of an Anti-Virus Software
A good step is to always install and use anti-virus software on your devices. Some good examples are Avast and Norton. Because of recent changes in the privacy policies of many websites, there is no longer a place for information such as your IP address. In previous years, this information was given out for marketing purposes. Therefore, you may see advertisements on your screen when you surf, which can cause you to feel uncomfortable.
Never Give Out Your Email on the Internet
Another one of the internet safety tips that should be remembered is not to give out your email address over the internet. Most sites require you to sign up for their service or download additional files before getting your email address. If you do not want to be a member, do not give out your email address. However, if you have a legitimate reason, you should make sure that your email address is protected. This can be achieved by signing up for a service that offers anonymous browsing.
Never Add Strangers on Your Social Media Accounts
With everyone using various social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and so on, it’s not uncommon that people often tend to befriend unknown people. However, doing so gives these people access to all of your private information. While some of them might just be regular people who you have nothing to worry about, others could take advantage of this inroad and use your private information for some criminal activities. As a result, it’s always best to only add people you know or have met.
In Conclusion
If you follow these tips on how to stay safe on the internet, you are guaranteed that you will not be a victim of cybercrime. This is because cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for several ways to compromise the security of internet users. Once they find one method, they may use it to access your accounts on several sites.
Staying safe on the internet requires a great deal of work. Do not put your personal information at risk because it is not only you who are using the internet but also everyone on the internet.
