With smartphones, social networks and virtual reality taking over, the average individual in the developed world can spend around 7-8 hours per day using technology. Most people are happy to admit that they spend too much time scrolling, gaming or watching TV, but the question has to be asked - how do you stay safe in this digital world?
There are many risks and dangers that can lurk on the internet, and many are ill prepared to fight back against these threats. It’s vital that you can learn how to use technology in a secure and sensible manner, as your personal data and safety are at risk each time you log on.
Fortunately, this informative guide contains some of the most valuable tips and advice that can help you to stay safe in the digital world. You can browse with peace of mind knowing that you're out of harm's way, so what are you waiting for? Read on to discover more now!
Be Careful What You Post
One of the most important steps that you should always follow when you’re using technology is to be careful what you post. No matter what platform or device you may be using, it’s vital that you can actively monitor what you post online to ensure that you aren’t giving away too much information. This means never posting your home or work address, date of birth or other valuable information that someone else might use for malicious purposes. The sheer volume of identity theft online should shock you into keeping your information private, as you risk encountering serious issues when freely giving up your personal data. You should also think logically about the type of content that you post - is it a good idea to announce your vacation online? This simply informs those with malicious intentions that your house will be empty and unguarded, so it’s best to keep your sun-kissed pics to yourself until you get home. When you’re careful what you post online, you can rest easy knowing that you’re safe and sound.
Install Firewalls & Virus Detection
Though there are many risks online, there are also many tools and programs that can help you to fight back and protect your devices. Two of the most effective options are firewalls and virus detection. Firewalls act almost like a physical wall outside your home, blocking any unauthorized entry to your device and preventing those without permission from accessing your files and data. Virus detention services are a little different, as they scour your systems and files on the hunt for suspicious activity. When identified, it’s reported and removed to provide you with peace of mind. Hackers and viruses can render your system vulnerable or even obsolete in the worst case, so it’s vital that you can do what is necessary to protect your technology. It’s a good idea to take some time to look around for the best programs or software available for your specific devices, as there are multiple providers that offer their own unique services. Read reviews left by other firewall or virus detection users to get an unbiased look into what’s available on the market right now. You may have to pay for the best programs and software, but it’s a small price when you consider how valuable your devices and information are.
Create Strong Passwords & Keep Them Safe
How strong are your passwords? If you use your name and date of birth or any other obvious combination, then the chances are your passwords aren’t very strong at all. Someone or something could easily crack your password and break into your account or device without really breaking in - you might not even know that they’ve accessed your account or device. You must always take the time to create strong, complex passwords, as the stronger your passwords the safer your technology is. If you can, make different passwords for each device and account that you own. Using the same password repeatedly puts you at real risk, as a hacker or other threat could potentially access multiple technologies by cracking just one password. Ensure that you use a variety of uppercase and lowercase letters, along with numbers and special characters too. The more complex and unique your passwords are, the lesser your chances of having your systems compromised. Don’t make the mistake of writing your passwords down and sticking them to the back of your device - if you lose your laptop on a train or have your games console stolen from your home, it would make it easier for a thief to access your system and switch off any tracking you may have installed. If you struggle with remembering your passwords, then use a secure system like Apple Keychain. This will store your passwords securely and load them into your accounts whenever you need to access them from your nominated secure device. It’s easy to use these systems and the most common Keychain problems are simple to fix, so even the most novice technologists can keep their passwords safe using these methods.
Cover Up Your Webcam
Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more common to have your webcam hacked or monitored. Most computers or laptops will have a webcam, and in some cases smart TV’s and games consoles will have one too. Though your webcams may never get compromised, it’s hard to tell whether you’ve actually been targeted - not all webcams have lights that indicate they’re in use, and those that do may be hacked to switch off anyway. Covering up your webcams when they’re not in use is an easy way to prevent any unauthorized surveillance of you and your home, as a hacker or other similar malicious entity will be met with darkness rather than a full view of your property and family. You can buy specially designed webcam covers that flip on and off for easy use, or you can just cover up the camera with some opaque electrical tape. It’s also a good idea to cover your microphone too, but this can be a little more tricky. Some manufacturers do sell microphones covers for a limited number of specific devices, so it’s worth looking into.
Good luck on your quest to stay safe in the digital world! Check out this guide to create an amazing smart-home.