Whether you read email, check social media, or do most anything online, your internet behaviour may put you at risk. Hackers and scammers can take advantage of your online movements to get your financial data and other sensitive information.
To stay safe online, make a habit to avoid the following bad habits
Do Not Immediately open an unfamiliar email
If you don’t think twice before opening an email (or attachment) from an unfamiliar sender, you put yourself at serious risk of phishing.
Phishers are scammers who send emails containing links or attachments that, once you click on them, can trick you into revealing your login information or infect your computer with malware or ransomware.
You share too much on social media
It’s easier than ever to share details of your life, but all that social media sharing can leave you vulnerable to identity thieves, who can piece together the information you share to crack your passwords and answers to security questions. If you don’t want to make your social media accounts private, consider strengthening your security settings.
You regularly connect to public Wi-Fi
If you must use public Wi-Fi, never log into banks or social media accounts, and consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your sensitive data.
You accept invitations to connect from strangers
Although online platforms offer legitimate professional networking opportunities, be wary of impulsively accepting invitations and requests from strangers. Before you add a stranger to your social networks, take a good look at his or her profile and consider the risk.
Using the same password for multiple accounts
You already know that your passwords should be strong. But besides using long combinations of random numbers, letters, and symbols, you should also make each password you use unique to that account. If you use the same password for multiple accounts, a hacker who gains access to one account also has access to your other accounts.
Always be cautious
It’s always better to be safe than sorry online, and that begins with staying in the know. If you need any help when things go wrong, or you need some advice, give ABACON IT a call. We are here to help you.
For more information contact the author and owner of ABACON IT, Ryan Danvers on 072 601 2858.