The term “cybersecurity” refers to the practice of protecting computer networks, computer systems, and other forms of digital infrastructure from intrusion. It protects all categories of data from theft and damage, including sensitive data, personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), personal information, and intellectual property.
According to Databasix, the worldwide information security market is forecasted to reach $170.4 billion in 2022. As we increasingly depend on the internet for our daily activities, from work to entertainment, it is important to keep our information safe from unauthorized access. Some of the dangers of the internet include identity theft, phishing, online scams, and malware.
Covid-19 caused a large number of people to work from home, resulting in a sharp rise in cybercrime rates. With cyber-attacks occurring every 14 seconds, tools such as firewalls and antivirus software have become the need of the hour. On top of that, it has become extremely important to be aware and take precautionary measures while browsing. To help you out with that, here are four tips that will ensure you have a secure and protected online experience.
Use Secure Public Wi-Fi Networks
Public places such as coffee shops, libraries, airports, hotels, and universities offer free Wi-Fi hotspots that are convenient but not always secure. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network and send information through websites or mobile apps, the information is not encrypted, which means someone else might be able to access it.
Unsecured public Wi-Fi networks are an easy target for hackers. Some of the measures you can take to ensure you are well-protected while using public Wi-Fi networks include turning on the firewall, which can prevent hackers’ unauthorized external access to your system, and using a VPN or a Virtual Private Network, which encrypts data travelling to or from your device and connects you to a private server.
Keep Privacy Settings On
One simple and effective way to stay safe while browsing the internet is by keeping your privacy settings on. Not doing so will make your information available to marketers to ‘enhance your browsing experience’, while running the risk of being intercepted by hackers. Major web browsers like Chrome and social media platforms like Facebook have settings available to protect your privacy online. It is up to you to take charge of your information in this age of rapid digital transformation and enable these privacy safeguards to ensure a secure browsing experience.
Practice Safe Browsing
As explained by Google Search Central, “HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is an internet communication protocol that protects the integrity and confidentiality of data between the user’s computer and the site. Users expect a secure and private online experience when using a website.”
Keep an eye out for the site’s address whenever browsing online. It’s a standard procedure that online shopping sites like Amazon and eBay, as well as entertainment platforms like Netflix, iTunes, and casino bonus sites, process personal data for logging in or making payments. An address that starts with ‘HTTPS’ (instead of ‘HTTP’) and has a padlock icon in the URL field assures that the website is authentic, reputable, and uses encryption. So whether you’re shopping, watching movies, or playing games at online casinos, this is an important security measure to make your private info secured.
Create Strong Passwords
A strong password is your first line of defence against unauthorised access to your computer and personal information when it comes to internet security.
Strong passwords safeguard sensitive data from hackers and malicious software. In order to create a strong and secure password, it should contain at least ten characters and have a combination of upper-case and lower-case characters, commas, signs, and numbers. Make sure not to use the same password for two or more devices, as hackers who break into one device will try to use the same password to take control of others. Avoid using confidential details such as your name, age, date of birth, or your child’s name, when constructing your password. Remember to change passwords regularly as they can help prevent unauthorized access to your online accounts.
