Over the last several decades, the world has become more and more digital. From banking online to interacting with friends on social media, the internet has radically altered how we interact with the world. While digital technology has empowered us in many ways, it has also brought some significant risks with it. Cyber-criminals have become savvier, putting your personal information and digital assets at risk.
Thankfully, there are ways to bolster your online security and steeply decrease your chances of being the victim of a cyberattack. Understanding some key ways to engage in internet safety strategies can make it easier to stay safe on the internet. Here are three things you can do to be more secure online.
Recognize Scams and Threats
Today, the internet is filled with threats that come in several different forms ranging from advertising prompts to overly engaging emails. Unfortunately, cybercriminals have become proficient at disguising their efforts which can make it difficult to discern which things online are legitimate and which are threats. Thankfully, there are some telltale signs that you can look out for when surfing the web. Some red flags you should constantly be on the lookout for include:
- Being abruptly prompted to provide private information
- Being told you’ve won a contest you don’t remember entering
- Companies seeming unprofessional
- Being contacted by someone you don’t know
- Being prompted to send money
By staying vigilant and aware of common threats looming on the internet, you will be able to better avoid scams and cyber threats.
Utilize and Maintain Antivirus Software
While it may not seem like the most stimulating use of your time, taking a few minutes to install antivirus software on your devices can make you significantly more secure online. This software is crafted to detect threats and safeguard you from cybercriminals attempting to steal your information.
In addition to installing antivirus software on your devices, it is also important to update and maintain the software consistently. By being diligent in installing all of the new updates that this antivirus software has to offer, you can be rest assured that you are being protected when you are engaging in online activities.
Be Careful Where You Shop Online
In today’s modern age, eCommerce has become a common way to shop for many people around the world. From having access to endless product options to having access to the best deals, it’s no wonder that online shopping has become a popular way to shop.
Unfortunately, not all online stores are created equally. While many online shops are legitimate, there are a significant number of websites that pose as e-commerce stores to steal the private information of unsuspecting victims. To avoid having your personal and financial information stolen by cybercriminals, it is important to always vet websites before making a purchase. Some steps you can take to vet an online store include:
- Checking for a physical address on the website
- Scrolling through various pages to see if the company looks legitimate
- Looking up reviews on third-party websites
By being mindful about which websites you provide your private information to, you’ll be more protected and secure online.
Final Thought
Online security should always be a priority.
While most of us spend a significant amount of time online every day, a dishearteningly low amount of us spends time researching cyber safety. Thankfully, staying secure online doesn’t have to require a substantial amount of effort. By engaging in a few key practices, you can greatly increase your online security and protect yourself from many of the cyber threats looming online.
