8 things you can do to be more secure online
VPN, antivirus and unique passwords are not enough to
keep your devices, identity and activities safe. Here are some vital steps that
can protect you from virtual threats
Use two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication can be a pain, but it makes
your accounts more secure. It verifies your identity using at least two
different forms of authentication: something you are, something you have, or
something you know. Gmail, Evernote, and Dropbox are a few examples of online
services that offer two-factor authentication.
Use passcodes even when they are
optional
Apply a passcode lock wherever available, even if
it’s optional. Think of all the personal data and connections on your smartphone.
Going without a passcode lock is unthinkable. Many smartphones offer a
four-digit PIN by default. Don’t settle for that. Use biometric authentication
when available and set a strong passcode.
Pay with your smartphone
Credit cards are not the most secure type of
transactions. That’s not your fault, but there is something you can do about
it. Instead of whipping out the old credit card, use Apple Pay or an Android
equivalent everywhere you can. Paying with a smartphone app eliminates the
possibility of data theft by a credit card skimmer.
Use different email addresses
for different accounts
People who are both organised and methodical about
their security often use different email addresses for different purposes, to
keep the online identities associated with them separately. If a phishing email
claiming to be from your bank comes to the account you use only for social
media, you know it’s fake.
Clear your cache
Never underestimate how much your browser’s cache
knows about you. Saved cookies, saved searches and web history could point to
your home address, family information and other personal data.
To protect information that may be lurking in your
web history, be sure to delete browsing cookies and clear your browsing history
on a regular basis.
Turn off the ‘save password’
feature in browsers
Speaking of what your browser may know about you,
most browsers include a built-in password management solution. But security
experts don’t recommend it. They suggest it’s best to leave password protection
to password managers. Keeping your passwords in a single, central password
manager lets you use them across all browsers and devices.
Protect your social media
privacy
You can reduce the amount of data going to Facebook
by disabling the sharing platform entirely. Once you do so, your friends can no
longer leak your personal data. You can’t lose data to apps because you can’t
use apps. And you can’t use Facebook to log into other websites (which was
always a bad idea). Other social media sites need attention too. Also, take
steps to manage your Google privacy.
Don’t fall prey to clickbait
Part of securing your online life is being smart
about what you click. Clickbait doesn’t just refer to funny compilation videos
and catchy headlines. It can also comprise links in email, messaging apps and
social media. Don’t click links in emails or text messages, unless they come
from a source you are sure of.
in.pcmag.com
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