Sometimes we overlook keeping our digital information secure. Still, by making a few simple changes to your accounts and devices, you can maintain the security of your information against unwanted attempts to access your data.
Use of Tools
Make smarter use of the tools that are available to keep your data safe, such as:
- File shredder – File Shredder software or programs delete files and folders permanently from your computer. The program deletes files by overwriting on the space that is occupied by the files that need to be removed on a permanent base. The file shredder software makes use of data sanitization methods to overwrite the specific data you want to delete.
- Secure your accounts – data breaches and leaks of passwords have hit big companies. If you have any online accounts, hackers have probably leaked data from one of them. To help with securing accounts, you should use a password manager to generate and remember more complex passwords for all of your accounts.
- Two-step authentication – it is vital to use two-step authentication when possible for your online accounts. Two-step authentication requires two steps: first is entering your password, and second being entering a number only you can access.
- Protect your web browsing – websites and companies track everything you are doing online. Ads, social network buttons, and websites are continually collecting information about your location and browsing habits. Using browser extensions can help block ads and data they are receiving. These extensions can also help with preventing malware from running in your browser.
- HTTPS Extension – you should install an HTTPS Everywhere extension. This extension directs you to secure versions of a site, which makes it difficult for an attacker to eavesdrop digitally on whatever you are doing online.
- VPN network – a virtual private network (VPN) is a useful tool if you frequently use public Wi-Fi. Virtual private networks add a layer of security to your browser when there isn’t an HTTPS extension available.
- Encrypt your email – typically, email encryption is used by businesses that are sending sensitive information, but more and more people are using email encryption to protect their privacy. When you enable encryption, it scrambles information for anyone except the authorized sender or recipient.
- Anti-malware and anti-virus protection – usually hackers will use malware, or malicious software that lets them access, steal, or delete information from your computer. Make sure to install anti-malware and anti-virus software to protect your compute and information.
Tips for Protecting Your Digital Information
Digital security should be a priority, especially if you are on the internet daily. Below are some tips to help keep your information as safe as possible.
- Be careful opening links and attachments in emails –standard attempt hackers try to use to access your private information is phishing. Through phishing, fraudsters send emails posing as professional companies or even people you know to try and steal your personal information. They do this by using malware, viruses, or ransomware. Whenever you receive an email, even if it is from a name you recognize, be very careful about clicking any links or downloading any attachments. If an email seems fishy, delete it.
- Automate software updates – software developers release software but are continually working on fixing security holes, glitches, and privacy settings. These fixes are presented as putsches and updates. Updating your software regularly is essential to protecting your accounts and personal information.
- Beware of public Wi-Fi – it is convenient to use public Wi-Fi, but it does present a challenge to your privacy. It is easy for hackers to access your information over public Wi-Fi as it travels from your device to the server.
- Turn off location data – all devices have location data that can pinpoint your exact location. Someone could be watching your equipment and know where you are. You can prevent governments, organizations, or hackers from entering your information and area by turning off location services on your device that connect to the internet.
Final Thoughts
The internet and digital age are continually evolving, and hackers are getting smarter, and the attempts to access personal data are becoming more and more complex. It is essential to protect your digital information from getting into the hands of hackers. Following the tips above, and implementing the use of some of the tools will help. These tips and tools will make sure that you are taking the necessary steps to keep your information safe in the digital world.