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8 Proven Ways to Stay Safe Online

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For upon |Undoubtedly internet is the best place to acquire desired information quickly, to buy stuff online and to communicate with loved ones who live overseas. But, cyber security threats, scams, malware and identity theft also make it a dangerous in this era of technology.Personal computers, smartphones and other devices connected with internet can put you up to more damages and risks if you are not following the tips to stay safe online. Below is an online safety cheat sheetthat can keep yourself protected online while using a computer or mobile device for internet surfing.

Avoid free Wi-Fi

Nothing can be greater than free Wi-Fi for data hungry mobile users but always keep in mind that it is an open door to everything stored on your device or laptop. Nowadays, most of the bars, cafes, shopping malls and public places offer free internet access to the public in form of unsecured(open) Wi-Fi that can harm you or your device badly as hackers can easily get access to your device or laptop with help of free and unsecured Wi-Fi. So, avoid it unless you really need to communicate with loved ones on the airport.

Two-factor authentication

Using the two-factor authentication is a best way to add an extra layer of security whenever you want to access your online account or any other login via internet. Whether it is the email service, mobile banking app or an e-commerce website for online shopping, check them for the feature of two-factor authentication in order to stay safe online. In this way, a mobile app or website always send you a unique verification code via email or text message in order to make sure that you are the genuine user. If there is no option available, you can use authenticator apps for different mobile operating systems to ensure foolproof internet security.

Strong Passwords

Make all your passwords strong and long enough to ensure safety and security. Always use a mix of numbers, symbols and special characters to keep your passwords away from the access of cyber criminals and hackers. You should use unique passwords for all your online accounts and logins and make use of a password manager in order to keep them all on a safe place.

Keep Software & Apps Up to Date

Almost all software and app vendors often send security patches and updates to fix bugs and flaws in their apps in order to provide users amazing and risk free experience. And you should also keep all your software or apps updated in order to stay away from malware, hackers and cyber criminals. Whether it is the operating system, social media app, web browser or antivirus software, turn the automatic updates on for all to get the latest updates regularly for advanced threat protection whenever connected to the internet.

Protect Your Mobile Devices

In this digital world, we all use mobile phones to surf the internet, use social media apps or to communicate with others via phone calls and it can also be vulnerable to latest online threats just like desktop computer. A harmful app, spamy link in text message and malicious URL can make hackers able to access all the data and information stored on your mobile device. So always be careful when responding to an unknown message or call, opening a link sent via email and installing an app full of malware. You can also use a mobile antivirus app in order to keep your devices protected from malware and viruses etc.

Use a Firewall

As it is barrier between your computer and internet connection, it blocks unauthorized and harmful access to your mobile devices or computer when using internet either for personal or business reasons. It helps you make sure that all the devices connected with the business network or internet connection are secured.

Browse Sites with HTTPS

Nowadays more and more websites and online resources are shifting to the HTTPS from HTTP as it offers internet visitors a safe and secure online experience. HTTPS web protocol adds an extra layer of security to the website by encrypting all the transactions or communications made by the user or website administration. Whenever you want to buy something online or want to carry out a financial transaction, always use a website functional with SSL certificate (HTTPS) to make sure all your personal details and information are secured.

Limit Social Media Sharing

Once something shared on internet, it cannot be deleted effortlessly. That’s why, experts always suggest you to limit your social media sharing as any type of personal details and information shared on internet can cause serious cybersecurity attacks like identity theft of data security breach etc. so, always be cautious whenever sharing personal or business related details on social media profiles and always use privacy features to keep your information safe.

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