Due to the tremendous growth in the number of internet users, the internet has become a haven for cybercrime.
As we enter the new year, being familiar with basic safety recommendations can help reduce cybercrime and internet-related concerns, consequently boosting online security.
Here are some online safety guidelines to consider for a cyber-secure year.
Internet security recommendations for everyone
1. Utilize an antivirus program
Each day, hackers produce new forms of malware that may result in the loss of money or personal information. This trend is expected to continue and may not abate anytime soon, necessitating the installation of powerful antivirus software on every machine.
Antivirus software is responsible for safeguarding computers against infection. Once this is accomplished, the user is protected against loss. Additionally, antivirus software should include internet filtering to offer the highest level of online security.
Choosing a decent antivirus program involves much investigation; otherwise, the incorrect selection is picked. However, it is prudent to stick with the market’s established brands.
2. Ensure that your passwords are secure and well-managed
Passwords are not going away, which means there will always be a need for strong, well-managed passwords. Additionally, a password should not be used on several websites for security reasons.
For a typical person, creating and remembering safe passwords may be a hardship. However, password generators can assist in the creation of strong passwords, and password managers may assist in the storage of passwords for future use.
When selecting a password manager, preference should be given to a superb password manager that does not keep users’ information.
3. Ensure that two-factor authentication is enabled for all accounts
Two-factor authentication (2FA) protects online accounts by adding an additional layer of protection. Typically, two-factor authentication asks users to submit a one-time password sent to their cell phone. When hackers acquire access to a user’s account and password, this feature becomes advantageous.
Most social networking platforms, email providers, and banks currently enable two-factor authentication, and it should always be utilized. It typically takes seconds to pass a 2FA test, but it might help keep hackers at bay indefinitely.
4. Exercise caution while using social media
Social media is notorious for cybercrime, and there have been several reports of information leakage related to social media use over the last decade.
Avoid oversharing information on social media. Additionally, friend invitations should be accepted judiciously. Scanning links thoroughly before clicking assures that one does not come across malware or become a victim of cybercrime. More caution should be used about social media conduct to maintain internet safety.
5. Do not divulge your location
Online sharing of live locations was a tendency that needed to be halted. The majority of individuals inadvertently give their whereabouts every time, unaware that they are selling them to advertising for free.
On a more severe note, criminals may be able to get all the information they want from a location and a caption. As a result, you should exercise caution while revealing your current location.
6. Be suspicious of emails
Email is unquestionably the most common vector of cyber assaults. When caution is not exercised with emails, one may easily fall victim to a phishing attempt, which often results in the theft of personal information or financial assets.
Never click on any links included in strange emails, particularly those that are unsolicited. Emails should be thoroughly examined to confirm they are legitimate and originate from the intended recipient.
To increase security, emails should be encrypted using a VPN service such as NordVPN. Consider using a secure, encrypted email service provider. It should be examined.
7. Always log out when finished
Finally, logout. Logging out of all online accounts may help keep your information safe from predators.
It is important to log out if the connection was established using an insecure connection, such as a public Wi-Fi network or a device shared with a friend.
To ensure optimal security, in addition to logging out, cookies should be erased.
8. Invest on a high-quality VPN
VPNs are a must-have for anyone who values their online security. Anyone who does not use a VPN exposes themselves to several threats on the internet.
A VPN encrypts the connection to the internet and routes all data over a secure protocol. This guarantees the security and privacy of the internet.
Which VPN service should you choose this year?
There are several VPN providers, but the reality is that the majority of VPN providers do not perform the functions of a VPN. Certain types are inherently sluggish and may be blocked in several spots. Occasionally, VPN services capture user data and sell it to advertisements.
NordVPN should be implemented to eliminate these concerns. NordVPN is a safe VPN service that has been established to be the finest in its class.
NordVPN has a content unlocking function that lets users access regionally restricted content. It establishes an encrypted connection between the user’s computer and the websites viewed, safeguarding data from third-party access.
NordVPN is compatible with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices.
Conclusion
While complying with all of the above is time consuming, the prospect of losing personal information and valuables to cyber predators is far more worrisome. Thus, accomplishing all of the above is critical for a cyber-secure year.
Additionally, remember to use NordVPN on all devices; you do not need to purchase separate memberships since a single NordVPN subscription may be used on up to four devices simultaneously. Not to mention the perks of total online anonymity that come with signing up for one of the company’s premium subscriptions.