You can do virtually anything on the internet, including ordering food, buying clothes and electronic devices and playing online poker.
In today’s digital world, privacy and security are very serious concerns for everyone who’s had to make a payment, register their credit card or sign up on social media. The good news is that you can use the same technology to keep your private information safe from prying eyes.
Here are 5 tech-savvy ways to stay safe online.
Authenticate Logins with OTP and TFA
Just about any activity you do will require you to sign in using your Google or Apple ID, or your registered username and password. In your profile you’re required to input your email address and phone number for account retrieval or authentication purposes.
TFA, or two factor authentication is becoming the de facto security for logins. Whenever you sign in to a new device or computer, a notification or code is sent to the primary device to ensure that it’s you who is logging in. Hackers won’t be able to get inside your account as long as the primary device is with you.
Use a VPN
VPNs, or virtual private networks are becoming standard practices for staying safe and private on the internet.
This tool is more useful than you’d think. Aside from hiding your ISP and other information, VPNs can unlock regional content, give you access to geo-specific deals and let you play poker online without worrying about someone stealing your financial data.
VPNs are becoming easier and more intuitive to use. It can take the form of an app, a hardware device you connect to your router or a software you can install in your computer or smartphone.
Fact-Find Using Google
It’s considered good practice to do some research first on a new website, product or email you received from a stranger. The same goes for unknown numbers calling you, claims that you have won a million dollars and notifications that your account has been hacked.
Hackers and similar unscrupulous individuals are getting better, and their scams are becoming more believable by the day. What seems like a legitimate email from Amazon or a trusted brand could be an elaborate attempt to acquire your account credentials.
Upgrade to a New Router
Your router might be perfectly serviceable, but if it’s more than 10 years old then it’s probably time to upgrade to newer tech.
The newer the router the more security features it has, notably encryption, anti-malware and the ability to set up stronger wifi passwords. Aside from these benefits you also gain greater coverage and eliminate dead spots in your home.
Use In-Device Protective Features
Lastly, you can activate new security features on modern smartphones, tablets and computers, as well as smart devices to keep your data safe from others.
Enable fingerprint recognition, face recognition and similar unlocking technology so only you get access to your device. Also, it’s worth the trouble to come up with a more complex PIN code or password so your devices aren’t easily breached.