The internet is fast becoming the most used tool globally as work and communication go more digital. Individuals and businesses are taking the run for an online-based interaction with their loved ones or clients.
People have now become heavily dependent on the use of the internet to carry out any type of task. Its importance transcends every industry. However, just as you are using the internet safely and ethically, some other people use it for dubious and illegal purposes. Therefore, it is crucial for you to always stay safe when using the internet as damages of varying proportions can play out if you are not careful enough.
Staying safe online is a mantra law-abiding citizens must never forget in a world where hacking and cyber attacks are becoming what every kid with a digital device can do. In this article, there are proven tips that can help you keep safe when online. Here they are.
1. Make Sure The Connection is Encrypted
One way that you can know if a site is encrypted is by looking for a small padlock icon. If you find this on the site, this shows that the connection is encrypted. Also, be on the lookout for sites that use HTTPS as this shows that the site can enable encryption. Encryption would keep you safe while you navigate the site.
This ensures your information is well protected and prevents intruders from getting your personal data from the website. You should particularly look out for these encryption signs if you are on a site that would require you to input your sensitive information such as email address, phone number, or credit card details.
2. Use a Virtual Private Connection
Using a VPN would keep your personal details safe by changing your IP address. This would protect your information when you are connected to a public network. While it is possible to think that connecting to a WIFI you’re familiar with might be safe, this is not always true. VPN Brains have a compilation of some of the best VPNs you can use. You might find one that suits your budget and preference.
Hackers may disguise themselves by using names of popular places such as Malls or Airports since they know you’d be more comfortable connecting to them. This way, hacking your devices or accounts becomes easy for them while you sit quietly oblivious of what’s happened already. Using a virtual private network can help you bounce off your location and information as another person in another place entirely.
3. Always Use a Strong Password
People are used to choosing passwords that they can easily recollect and not to lose access to important information on the site they’re on. While it is important to use a password that can be easily remembered, you should ensure that it is a strong one.
What makes a password strong is the combination of letters (capitalized and small), alphanumeric symbols, and numbers. If you’re worried you might not remember these passwords, consider going for password generators. There would be no need for you to keep the password to heart as it would be automatically saved for you.
4. Be Careful of What You Share
There are various ways people can access your information nowadays. One of such ways is through what you post or share on your social media platforms. It is only normal for you or anyone to want to share that new house you just moved to, the new ride, or the latest device you added to your collection. However, do so carefully because such little information that seems trivial can be used by anybody to get the needed details about you.
Even by just accepting friend requests from people you don’t know, you’re exposing yourself to virtual insecurities. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t accept requests from strangers, just do it with caution and take note that some individuals may have connected with you just to steal valuable information from you.
5. Keep Your Computer and Antivirus Updated
Ensure your operating system and anti-virus are updated the moment another version is made available. As hackers are constantly looking out for loopholes, developers are equally looking for how to upgrade their software products to benefit their users and keep them safe. This is why you shouldn’t joke with updates.
Using older versions is leaving your device exposed to potential threats. Stay on top of the situation by ensuring both your OS and antivirus are updated.
These are some tips that you should keep in mind while using the internet for your daily activities. They will keep you safe from cyber-attacks and with the right antivirus software, help you track your online safety.
6. Use A Proxy Server
Proxies are used to protect users’ online privacy and security by routing internet traffic through a separate server, which can hide a user’s IP address and location, and encrypt the data being transmitted.
Proxies for online safety can be used to access blocked websites or content, and to bypass internet censorship. They can also be used to protect a user’s data from being intercepted by hackers or other malicious actors while browsing the internet or using online services.
Proxies for online safety can also be used to access blocked websites or content, and to bypass internet censorship. For example, if a user is located in a country where certain websites are blocked, they can use a proxy server to access these websites.
Overall, proxies for online safety are a powerful tool for protecting users’ online privacy and security. They can help to hide a user’s IP address and location, encrypt internet traffic, and access blocked websites or content. If private proxies can’t be part of your budget, you can use free proxies from a trustworthy proxy provider like Geonode.
