As the average person’s online presence grows, so too does the threat of a cyberattack. Cybercrime isn’t just targeted at large businesses either. Every day, the general population is also at risk of having their sensitive data, such as account passwords and bank information, stolen.
To help combat this threat, we’ve put together a cybersecurity checklist that will ensure that you are keeping yourself and your private data protected.
Keep Operating Systems and Software Updated
Whether you’re using a laptop, smartphone or any other internet-connected device, you’re sure to see periodic updates come across your device. This is true for both operating systems (OS) and software applications. In either case, it’s important that you do not ignore these updates.
Frequently, when an OS or software update is made available, it is due in large part to the developers patching security issues that had been identified. Installing these updates will help mitigate the risk of your system being compromised.
Always Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi
Many businesses provide public Wi-Fi so you can connect your devices to the internet. However, these public Wi-Fi networks are not secure, and they are a hotbed of hacker activity. So, if you use public Wi-Fi, it’s important to use a high-quality VPN to encrypt your online activity and protect your private data.
Consider Norton 360 with LifeLock, which provides a highly secure VPN among a wide range of other cybersecurity protection services. These additional services include a useful password manager, which brings us to the next item on our checklist.
Don’t Reuse Passwords
Passwords can be difficult to remember when you’ve got a dozen different password-protected online accounts. Still, it’s important to keep each password unique and not to reuse them across different accounts. If your password for one account becomes compromised, each of your other accounts using the same password is put at risk. By using a password manager, you only need to remember one password to access your others.
Never Click E-Mail Links
One of the most common forms of cyberattack is the phishing e-mail scam. These e-mails will appear to be from a trusted entity, such as your bank, and will typically notify you that there is a problem with your account. They’ll then provide a link to click on to update your account information, which will bring you to a very convincing replica of your bank’s (or other business’) authentic website. However, this scam website is simply looking to collect your information to hijack your account.
When you receive an e-mail with a link in it, do not click the link. Instead, navigate to the business’ actual website through your web browser and log in from there. This way you can be sure you are on a legitimate business website, and if there is truly an issue with your account, you will surely be notified when you log in.
Social Media Safety
Social media can be fun, but sharing too much information can be dangerous. Criminals can use details from your posts to steal your identity or figure out when you’re not home.
Check your privacy settings regularly. Make sure only friends can see your posts, and be picky about who you accept as friends. Don’t accept requests from people you don’t know in real life.
Think carefully before posting personal information. Your birthday, home address, phone number, and travel plans should stay private. Even sharing photos can give away more information than you realize, like where you live or work.
Be careful about online quizzes and games that ask personal questions. These might seem fun, but they often collect information that’s used in password security questions, like your first pet’s name or the street you grew up on.
Financial Security Online
Online banking and shopping are convenient, but they need extra protection. Use strong, unique passwords for all your financial accounts, and enable two-factor authentication when available.
Check your bank and credit card statements regularly – at least once a week. The sooner you spot unauthorized charges, the easier they are to fix. Most banks let you set up alerts for unusual activity.
When shopping online, only use websites you trust. Look for “https://” at the start of the website address and a padlock symbol in your browser. These show the site is secure. Avoid saving your credit card information on shopping sites – it’s safer to enter it each time.
Consider using a separate credit card just for online purchases. This makes it easier to track spending and spot fraud. If the card gets compromised, your main accounts stay safe.
Device Protection
Your phone, tablet, and laptop need physical protection too. Use strong passwords or fingerprint locks to keep others out if your device is lost or stolen.
Keep Bluetooth turned off when you’re not using it. Hackers can use Bluetooth connections to access your device. When you do use Bluetooth, only connect to devices you trust.
Back up your important files regularly. You can use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, but also keep important files on an external hard drive. This protects you from both hackers and hardware failures.
Delete apps you don’t use anymore. Each app is a potential security risk, and some might access more of your personal information than you realize. Only download apps from official stores like the App Store or Google Play.
Safe Browsing Habits
The way you browse the internet can affect your security. Use a trusted browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari, and keep it updated.
Install an ad blocker to protect against malicious ads. Some ads can install harmful software on your device even if you don’t click them. Popular ad blockers include uBlock Origin and AdBlock Plus.
Be careful what you download. Files and programs from untrusted sources might contain viruses or other harmful software. If you’re not sure about something, don’t download it.
Clear your browser history and cookies regularly, especially when using shared computers. This removes stored information that others might access. Most browsers let you do this automatically when you close them.
Key Takeaway: Always Be on Alert
Cybercrime is booming and it only gets more prevalent each year as more people are performing financial transactions online. You should always protect yourself by using the above checklist, doing so will ensure that you mitigate the risk of your private and sensitive data being stolen.
Final Thoughts
Staying safe online might seem overwhelming, but it becomes easier with practice. Start with the basics – keep your systems updated, use strong passwords, and be careful with emails and downloads. Then gradually add more security measures as you get comfortable.
Remember, online security isn’t about being perfect – it’s about making it harder for criminals to access your information. Every step you take to protect yourself makes a difference. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if something seems suspicious.
The internet is an amazing tool that makes our lives better in many ways. By following these security practices, you can enjoy its benefits while keeping yourself and your information safe.
