The World Wide Web is an outstanding achievement of humanity. However, it also poses many threats to personal information stored on people’s gadgets. In addition, the statistics on the growth of cybercrime have been disappointing in the last few years. So how can users protect the privacy of their devices in a world without borders? Read this article to find out.
Basic Rules of Cyber Hygiene
Scammers use social engineering and phishing to lure sensitive data. Often they send messages with links to malicious programs or files containing viruses. In such a way, cybercriminals hope to remotely access gadgets and steal sensitive data from them. So you need to take the following steps to secure your devices.
# 1 Use Antivirus Software
Install antivirus software on all used gadgets. Then the scammers can’t capture data from your device, even if you click on a malicious link. The main thing is not to forget to update your security systems. If you don’t know which antivirus to choose or need help installing it, try this site to resolve the issue within an hour. You only need to describe your problem in a pop-up chat box, and then you’ll be connected to the appropriate expert in a few seconds.
# 2 Keep Your System Updated
Attackers are always looking for vulnerabilities in software and applications. Thus, manufacturers regularly release updates and strengthen antivirus protection. Consider that using the latest version of the software is essential. Find the automatic update feature in your gadget’s settings and turn it on. It’s much harder to hack an updated device.
# 3 Download Only Verified Apps
Download apps only from trusted sources, for example, AppStore or Google Play. Read other users’ comments on specialized forums, so you know the possible risks of using the program in advance. And also, make sure that the developer actively updates it: official stores usually indicate the date of the latest changes.
# 4 Don’t Install Software at the Request of Strangers
Malicious apps aren’t the only ones that pose a threat. Sometimes scammers use legitimate remote access programs to control your device on your behalf. For example, with remote access programs, criminals can read text messages from your bank with secret codes and passwords, log into your online bank, transfer money, or apply for credit.
# 5 Learn Your Privacy Settings
When installing apps, pay attention to privacy settings. Allow access only if necessary: for example, you need your location for a cab app, but it’s hardly essential for your task calendar. Choose a different app if you don’t like the access rights requirements. When the user agreement is updated in the program, think carefully before accepting the terms and study them first.
# 6 Select Strong Passwords
A password must consist of at least eight characters: digits, lower- and upper-case letters, and special characters. Better not to use famous words and standard abbreviations. No dates of birth, first names, and last names. Passwords should be different for each account. Also, re-enter your password manually every time, don’t save it for automatic entry. If possible, set up double authentication.
Conclusion
Secrets were once easy to keep. But not in the age of information technology. However, the security of your data mainly depends on your attentiveness. And if you use at least a few of the recommendations in this article, the risks of keeping your devices private increase several times.
