Did you know that a new cyberattack occurs every 39 seconds?
Over 30,000 websites are attacked every day, ransomware occurrences are expected to increase by 150% by 2020, and email is responsible for approximately 94% of all malware.
Furthermore, approximately 24,000 malicious mobile apps are blocked on the internet every day.
These data should be enough to frighten the average person, but are we doing enough to combat these threats?
If you aren’t, here’s a checklist of things you should do to stay safe online.
Keep your passwords up to date.
A password serves a purpose: it safeguards the user’s identity and data.
If your password is anything like Iamthebestperson@123, you should change it RIGHT NOW.
Simple passwords make you exposed to cyber-attacks. Unfortunately, many continue to use their phone numbers, birth dates, pet names, and so on.
Create passwords in the form of a combination that you can easily remember but not others.
Make use of two-factor authentication.
Thankfully, your online accounts no longer rely on passwords for security.
Or do they?
Cybercriminals find it harder to enter into your accounts using two-factor authentication. After logging in, it prompts individuals to confirm their identification.
For example, if a user has set two-factor authentication for their GMAIL ID, they must input a four-digit number (sent to their mobile device) to validate their identity. In other circumstances, such as netbanking, users must respond to a security question.
Always add an extra layer of protection to avoid identity theft and stolen passwords.
The invader will never be able to access your data without your permission. So, implement two-factor authentication now.
Avoid clicking on dodgy links.
Malware and viruses are frequently disseminated because you clicked on a link from someone you used to know.
This may seem concerning, but cybercriminals have evolved as well. Links are no longer mysterious; they have begun to appear familiar.
Look for typos if a link appears unusual.
Don’t click if it looks like this: http://tiny.cc/63hqads.
You must train yourself for circumstances like these.
Most individuals have received scam emails that mask the destination address in a button and appear to be from someone they know.
In this case, you can’t tell where the link leads, and most people click the button because the messaging is usually about missing payments or something important.
Hover your mouse over the button to check if the destination address fits the context.
If it doesn’t, you can guess where it originated from.
If you’re using a mobile device, long tap the link to bring up a pop-up with further information.
Do not post any personal information on social media.
Never post your name, address, email address, date of birth, or financial information on social media.
People, for example, frequently publish their information on the social media accounts of Amazon, Flipkart, and financing service providers since their requests are pending.
Sharing your information will not expedite your requests, but some others may be interested in your information and attempt to con you.
We realize that you are upset because things did not go as planned, but disclosing those information about yourself would be more damaging. Be patient and follow the company’s customer service procedures.
The key is to be astute.
Don’t use your name as a user ID, provide less information on survey forms, and avoid giving out your phone number at shopping malls.
Share as little information about yourself as possible, or disclose nothing at all.
Keep them guessing, hackers.
The lottery proceeds
“Congratulations!!! You’ve won a 100-crore lottery. Please email your contact information in order to collect the reward.”
If you get the following message, ignore it completely since no one ever gives money away for free.
You can call their bluff with their next request: they will require money or bank information and generate urgency. By not revealing any information, you win against the con artist.
The To-Do List You Shouldn’t Miss
Avoid using public computers –
You never know who used the computer before you. Choose internet cafes that have a solid reputation and uphold high standards.
Free Wi-Fi will cost you –
You risk obtaining malware or a virus if your device isn’t secured with appropriate antivirus software and a VPN.
Please keep your systems and gadgets up to date –
Updates to your operating system or device include bug fixes and firewall patches that strengthen your protection against hackers.
Stay alert –
Learn more about phishing scams and how to detect one. Spread the word, and make sure your friends and family are informed as well.
At all costs, safeguard your smart gadget.
We rely on our cellphones for everything. It might be payments, booking tickets, banking, shopping, or anything else that can be accomplished with a few mouse clicks. Making strong passwords and Lojacking your phones (Apple devices) will help you get farther.
Securing Social Media account:
Use different passwords for different social media accounts. keep on changing the passwords on regular basis.