Internet security can hit you really hard. Things can be hard if hackers access your online business information. That’s why you need to protect yourself from these unethical people. Remember, hackers are getting more and more sophisticated. The following tips will help you stay safe online and do your business with confidence.
Go For Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are an effective tool for protecting your online privacy. Make sure that they’re at least 10 digits long, combine upper plus lower-case letters, and avoid using the same password across different platforms.
You could as well opt for an automated password manager, which automatically generates baffling strings of characters that make it easier for you to create a strong password. And since you’ll need to remember this password together with other complicated passwords, consider devising a system that’s intuitive for you.
advises against using your name in passwords. Choose unique passwords, write them down, and then store in a safe place. In case the passwords get lost, change them immediately.
Consider Rethinking About Your Security Questions’ Answers
With sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn, hackers can easily get past your security questions. So, stay secure by outsmarting them. Choose a security question that’s meaningful to you like the name of your favorite television show or where you got engaged.
Double-Verification
Google has already pioneered this. For you to access Gmail as well as other Google accounts, you need your actual password and a one-time password that Google sends to your cell phone number. Of course, this system could be cracked, particularly if you’ve lost your phone, but it does help.
Dedicated Password-Recovery Based Email
Some websites will prompt you to provide a second email address where you’ll receive a new password should you lose the original one. So, be sure to create an extra email address that’s exclusively intended for this purpose. Always avoid using your name or initials since most hacker is aware that most people use their names for email addresses.
Avoid Clicking on Unfamiliar Links
If someone sends you a link with no personal note, just be sure that it’s bogus. And clicking on it might turn your email into a spamming machine by crawling into your address book and sending the link to all your contacts. Even worse, these links can completely crash your hard drive. To stay safe, just delete the unknown links and avoid clicking on them.
Data Backup
To avoid losing important documents, programs, or photos, get yourself an external hard drive. You may also want to consider backing up your files in the “cloud” via options such as Dropbox, Rackspace, and Apple’s iCloud.
The Bottom-Line
Safety matters a lot. Staying safe online is important—especially if you are dealing with sensitive as well as private information. So, if you want to keep scammers and hackers off your data and private information, employ the above strategies. From creating strong passwords to backing up your data—these are the tips you need to stay safe online.
