Online Safety – How To Stay Safe While You Browse The Web

The internet has become a big part of almost every person’s life. In fact, it is so important that some people lead a virtual life and spend most of their time online. Okay, maybe you aren’t that bad, but you aren’t a novice either.There is nothing wrong with using the internet, as long as you use it safely. The cyber highway is full of hazards that can leave you vulnerable, and it is important to avoid them whenever possible. Here are a few tips that will help keep you safe when you are online.

Be Wary Of Online Purchases
The world of online shopping is a billion dollar industry. And, you don’t want to miss out on the sales and promotions that only occur online.

That is understandable as everyone loves a bargain. Still, you don’t want to snap up a bargain at the expense of your security. There are online stores and services that you shouldn’t trust. That isn’t to say that they are trying to steal your information, but that they don’t hit certain standards.

For example, a trusty web address will always have a green, locked sign at the beginning. Some even have an encrypted card reader for extra security.

Only Use Reputable Sites
How do you know if a site is reputable? Your browser will tell you whether they think there is a problem. In most cases, a popup appears that says you shouldn’t trust the site’s certificate. As soon as you see that message, get out straight away.

It is a huge warning sign that the site is trying to hack your information for their gain. The best sites are trusty ones that place a lot of emphasis on security. Why?

They do it because they make enough money without having to steal it from unassuming customers. Today, search engines like Google even have programs that rank the most trusted sites on the web.

Install Antivirus Software
Viruses are a big deal when it comes to safety, but malware is even worse. In short, malware is what hackers use to steal your data.

The malware corrupts your server and acts like a normal software program. All the while, you use it like normal and hand them everything they need to perform an effective hack. Thankfully, this spyware software is easy to negate if you have all of the right security measures.

And, to get them, you just need a good antivirus software program. Forget about the free versions because they aren’t comprehensive. Instead, pay for one and use every feature to your advantage.

Don’t Open Suspicious Email
If there is an email that you don’t trust, don’t use it because it could be a hacker. For starters, it might be a virus that corrupts your computer.

Or, it might be something more malicious like a phishing scam. Phishing is where a hacker sends an email that you trust and then watches as you type in your information.

An example is a statement from your bank. Instead of going through a search engine, you go through the email. For your safety, always use your search engine of choice.