Securing your online presence is one of the first steps towards protection of it. Here are some great tips to do so.
1. Use A Custom Private Web Browser
Almost every browser out there offers ‘private browsing’ as a feature. This feature is, however, only effective in preventing other people (using the same device) from seeing your browsing history and habits. In other words, data collection companies, governments, website owners, and hackers can still track your activity. That said, you aren’t completely protected from prying eyes with this feature, which is why we recommend looking for a custom private web browser to use. These browsers offer enhanced security and protection against online trackers, and especially governments and data collection agencies. This will help keep you and your business safe online.
2. Use Strong And Unique Passwords For All Online Accounts
Passwords are a nightmare for many people. According to research, a good number of people use the same or almost similar passwords for their online accounts. Using the same password for all your accounts, therefore, increases the risk of getting all of them hacked, should someone target you. The only best way to protect your online accounts is to first use a unique and strong password for each account. Be sure to use a password manager to help keep these passwords for you, hence no need to memorize them.
3. Limit How Much You Share On Social Media
While it is ok to share articles online, it isn’t exactly the same sharing personal information such as photos of your children, what you do, and other private photos/information. Most social media platforms enable users to control who can view/see their content. These settings are designed for those who wish to be careful online. Make use of these security settings both on your accounts, as well as your child’s too.
4. Steer Clear Of Free Wi-Fi
As irresistible as free Wi-Fi is, experts, advise against using such, and particularly public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi is anything but secure. Hackers use all manner of tools to eavesdrop on everyone’s activity on these networks. Most of them are on the hunt for financial data and personal information. A hacker can hijack and even download all your personal information, as well as transactional details the moment you connect to such networks. Make it a habit of using a VPN if you have to log onto these networks. VPNs provide an extra layer of protection, thus protecting you from anyone else on the public network.
5. Close All Unused Accounts
There is a good chance you have an account you no longer use/need anymore. Some of these can hold vital private data that could be worth much more in the black market. Terminating all accounts linked to your email addresses, and personal data is the only way you can prevent these from leaking or landing in the wrong hands. Take time to track down all these accounts, and close each of these. You can still open another one should you require their services in the future.