Tips for Staying Safe Online

Proposed online 'safety' measures may do more harm than good , The Canberra  Times  Canberra, ACT

Do you watch movies online? It’s important to ensure you’re safe as you browse.

 

Every device that connects to the internet is part of a large interconnected system. While the internet is a place of endless opportunities, there are hackers who lurk online with malicious intent. They pose a security threat that costs individuals and companies billions of dollars.

For instance, in 2004, Sven Jaschan, a German student once created a virus and released it to the web. The worm halted operations of Delta Airlines’ system and damaged computers worth millions globally. Therefore, if you stream movies or series online, use trusted sites like The Pirate Bay to ensure that your browse safely as well as the following tips.

 

How To Avoid Malicious Content Online?

Check all links before you click

Check all links to ensure they’re trusted sites. Verify a company’s correct site by googling it. Most entities attach their official website to their online content. You can hover over a link to see a preview of the full link in a web browser’s status bar. A safe link usually has a padlock at the start of an address. A link that starts with HTTPS:// is secure and HTTP:// is insecure.

 

Fake links usually omit a word or have bad grammar and misspell a company’s name on their sites. These malicious links expose you to viruses that remotely control your computer, phishing, ransomware, and hacks. Notably, emails are more susceptible to such attacks so avoid opening emails from strangers. Additionally, log in to sites that aren’t prone to attacks since cybercriminals often use websites with offensive content to target victims.

Use secure Wifi connections

How to Secure Your Home Network

Most public networks are insecure because they aren’t password encrypted. When you use such connections, avoid logging into accounts that require personal information. Hackers are notorious for hacking into public hotspots to spy on what unsuspecting users do online. You can also use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to browse legally and securely. However, you’ll have to put up with a slower internet connection because VPNs route connections to several servers to secure your data.

Use antivirus and firewalls

Install a great antivirus and update it continuously to protect you as you browse. Back your data up occasionally to protect it. In case of a virus infection, you can easily restore your information.

On the other hand, firewalls are virtual walls that track traffic within a company’s network. Unauthorized incoming traffic triggers an alarm and blocks hackers. Turn on automatic updates to keep anti-malware software ready to fight off the latest hacking techniques.

 

Set strong and complex passwords

There’s a popular list of common passwords online that prove hackers have an easy time because we set easy logins. To set your password, use a minimum of 15 characters with a mix of upper and lower cases. Avoid substituting letters with similar-looking numbers or symbols. Similarly, don’t share personal information that answers critical security questions. Clear your browsing history and cookies frequently. Hackers use such data to access confidential information. You can also store your passwords in a password manager.

 

Turn off your Bluetooth connection

Switch off your Bluetooth if you’re not transferring data. Researchers found that hackers can hack this feature. They can exploit a vulnerability in its connection to alter the content of nearby Bluetooth devices.

 

Log in with two-factor authentication

Is two-factor authentication (2FA) as secure as it seems? | Malwarebytes  Labs

This step asks you to verify your identity after you’ve logged in through a short code sent to your phone as a text or email. A site may also ask you to answer your security questions. Two-step verifications take time but they protect you online as you log in to your accounts.

Watch out for scams

Update yourself on the latest scams in cybercrime. According to National Cybersecurity Alliance, online romance scams are more prevalent in the U.S. Report scammers to relevant authorities and stay vigilant. Lastly, install parental control on your network connections to protect your children from scams too because they are more susceptible to strangers online.

Conclusion

Cybercriminals lurk in the shadows of the internet. You should protect yourself from online hacks through security measures like using an antivirus before you browse. You must also update your apps to stay at par with the dynamic world of the dark web.