Without a doubt, the internet has changed the world. But some believe this technology comes with a high price regarding personal security. Recently, you might have become extra cautious about surfing. Are you scared that your online activities are constantly monitored and easily infiltrated at any minute? Fortunately, after reading this post, you will know how to stay safe online.
How to Stay Safe While Browsing the Web
In this modern world, you can access everything from the comfort of your home, from social media feeds and banking details to emails and smart gadgets, through remote connections. Because of this newfound ability, your online activities and electronic devices must be as secure as possible. Here are some tips to ensure internet safety and real-life security.
Clear Your Cache
If there is one thing that knows more about you, it’s your cache. Your web searches, cookies, and history can say much about your family. So, if you don’t clear your cache often, you become easy prey for hackers. It’s important to note that your personalization for particular sites won’t necessarily disappear after clearing the cache. Most browsers enable users to single out their favorite websites so their cookies remain. To protect yourself better, clear your browser history, too.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks
Nowadays, Wi-Fi is available almost everywhere, including in restaurants, cafés, and other public places. Although this is a good thing, it opens the door to security issues. Using public Wi-Fi makes you vulnerable to predatory practices. If you have no option but to use it, don’t enter compromising information such as your financial details or Social Security number on any platform.
Threats from hackers are more pronounced in certain countries. If you happen to be traveling around Eastern Europe, say Bulgaria, you should get Bulgaria proxies or VPNs and use them to surf the internet when you aren’t at home. It will encrypt the information you share, making it hard to intercept.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is also known as 2FA. Typically, you have a password and username to log in, but with this method, you get an extra layer of security. The authentication can be in the form of a verification code sent to your email address or a mobile number. In simple words, it is like having two passwords for one account. Even though it might take you a few extra seconds to log into your account, it is difficult for other people to access your account. Many online stores and banks use this method to secure data.
Maintain Strong Passwords
It is tempting to use a single password to help you remember login details for multiple sites. Some users also end up creating easy passwords. However, using a single and simple password across all platforms could be the downfall of your entire online experience. Many hackers gain access to your information by getting login details from one platform and using those details on other online accounts.
Therefore, it’s crucial to use a strong password that’s hard to guess. Follow these tips to create a secure password:
- Choose a longer password with at least 12 characters.
- Use a mixture of numbers and letters (upper and lowercase).
- Avoid sticking to a single password for a long time.
- Don’t use passwords with memorable keyboard paths, such as “qwerty” or “12345”.
Utilize a Different Email Address
Another way you can stay safe online is by using unique email addresses for various purposes. This way, you can keep your online identities separate. For example, the email you use for your financial institutions should be different from the one you use on your social media accounts. This way, it will be easier to notice phishing emails claiming they are from your bank. This is because your emails will be less crowded, and it will be harder to track your online traffic.
Be Careful When Clicking Links
Malware and viruses usually spread when you click on a malicious link. So, when you see a URL that looks strange (for example, with typos), call the sender and ask whether they have shared the link on purpose. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Alternatively, copy and paste the link into a trustworthy link checker. Always remember not to click on the link until you are sure it’s secure.
Conclusion
Staying safe online might feel like a challenge, but it does not have to be. You can easily stay safe while browsing by strictly following these simple tips. Almost all of these options are easy to implement, even for beginners. So, feel free to implement them to ensure secure browsing.
Angela Spearman is a journalist at EzineMark who enjoys writing about the latest trending technology and business news.
