Data Protection 101: How to Counter Cyberdangers Online

As a society, we have never been so connected. The internet allows for instant connections across the world, something that was only a dream just a few decades ago.

However, the internet is not always a safe place. With the proliferation of computers and smartphones as gateways to the internet, these devices have become an important part of our lives, and they usually contain important information. For that reason, your smartphones and computers are under constant threat of digital attacks that intend to steal your information to profit from it.

In this article, we will explore some of the things you should take into consideration when it comes to protecting your devices and your data.

Choosing Your Browser

Nowadays, there are many browsers that you can choose from to access the internet. However, most users simply use the default browsers that come with their devices. Some default browsers are safe, but you should always inform yourself before selecting the one you will use.

A safe browser will be able to prevent third-party programs from accessing your data.

Incognito Mode

An extra precaution you can take is to use Anonymous Mode – also known as Incognito Mode – in your browser. When in Incognito Mode, your browser will not save your browsing history, cookies, site data, or any information you entered in forms. By doing this, you make it harder for hackers and websites to track your activities.

Double Check Suspicious Links

One way hackers use to enter your devices is through false links. These links usually reach you through your email and are commonly masked as legitimate.

To spot illegitimate links, the best way to start is by checking the email of the sender. If you do not recognize the email, you should avoid clicking the link.

Another way to spot harmful links is by reading the link itself. Most times, hackers will try to trick you by impersonating a known website. To avoid falling into this trap, you should carefully read the link and see if the website is spelled correctly – i.e. goagle.com instead of google.com.

Use Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is also a great tool to protect your data. A cloud storage company will have massive servers that will safeguard your information by employing powerful encryption and by having physical anti-hacking mechanisms in place.

By using cloud storage, you are entrusting your files to be securely stored by a system that is tailored to assure the safety of your information.

Use a VPN

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are some of the most used tools to avoid hacking attacks. VPNs encrypt your internet usage and disguise your online identity. This means that not even your internet provider will be able to know what you were using the internet for. It makes it much safer to browse the internet.

Care What You Share Online

Social media is as big as it ever was. Sharing personal moments is part of many people’s lives. However, you should always consider the information you are sharing.

Hackers can and will use information you share online to attack your devices and online accounts. Avoid sharing things like your address, the names of your children or pets, or even the birthday of your loved ones. This type of information is often used for passwords, and hackers know it.

Use Safe Passwords

Choosing passwords can be daunting. With so many passwords to remember, many of us tend to stick to one password for everything. However, doing this is considered one of the biggest risks one can take online.

You should always vary your passwords. This guarantees that one hacked account does not turn into many. Choose strong passwords with many characters and, preferably, with uncommon symbols, to make them very hard to hack.

Deactivate Safe Pass Feature

Many browsers already come with built-in password-safe storage. Despite its obvious convenience, this feature can also be dangerous. If a hacker is able to access your account, they could potentially copy all the access information you saved.