We’re all afraid of our accounts getting hacked. It’s also not so outlandish in today’s world. As things become more interconnected online, our accounts are always at risk of people with malicious intentions breaking in.
Still, there are ways to defend your accounts and personal information from hackers online. It’s also a lot easier than you think. These are the 5 most important things you should do to protect your information:
5. Have a Different Password for Each Account
Although this may seem inconvenient or even difficult to keep up with, it definitely is. However, if your passwords are all the same across all of your accounts (especially ones with sensitive data), that’s bad internet safety.
Hackers who can find one password will try to break into your other accounts with that same password. If they get in, they get in. Always remember to have a different password for each account to avoid having all of your accounts compromised at once.
If you’re worried about keeping track of all of your passwords, write them down someplace safe. For example, a notebook that goes someplace you can access. That way, you can remember your passwords and keep track of them too.
4. Avoid Clicking Random Email Links
Phishing emails are very common in today’s world. You may get a link from a source you’ve never heard about before. The email may be threatening legal action against you or threatening to take money from you. Then that email will prompt you to click on a link.
DON’T CLICK THE LINK!
Once you click that link, your computer is at-risk for having malware installed on it, and your passwords are at risk as well. Practice good internet safety and avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails.
The same advice goes for downloading PDFs. If the email is not from a source you recognize, avoid downloading or clicking anything from it.
3. Use Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication is a practice put in place by many password-protected accounts. In some accounts, it’s a requirement. In others, it’s an option.
If given the option, turn it on. By doing that, you’ll put a barrier against hackers from accessing your accounts even with your password. This is especially great if your phone has FaceID on it. The harder it is to access your accounts, the easier it will be to protect them.
2. Keep Your Devices Updated
If you have a smartphone, laptop, or some device that connects to the internet (I’d assume you do if you’re reading this article), then you need to keep them updated all the time.
When software updates or app updates roll out, developers usually update the firewalls and anti-virus protection as well. So, if you miss an update, you’re missing out on some vital protection. Just because you own an Apple product does not mean you’re safe from hacking or spyware.
Just recently, a new spyware was detected on Android and Apple smartphones in Europe. Be smart and update your software and your devices.
1. Don’t Pass Out Personal Information Everywhere
It’s really easy to get caught up in the world of signing up for new services, new websites, and new accounts. However, when you give out sensitive and vital personal information (i.e., your credit card), then you need to be aware of the website and if it’s safe to do so.
Typically, doing research on the website and looking through forums can help you determine if the site is legit or if it’s a scam.
Still, be cautious and always remember that sensitive, personal info should not be passed out everywhere you go.
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