Technology has come a long way in 2023. In particular, the Internet has created endless possibilities for the aspirations of humanity. Innovation is non-stop and keeping up with the pace of change can feel downright impossible.
Though technology has made life more convenient in numerous ways, it has also made things vastly more complicated. Threats that didn’t exist a decade ago are now pervasive. How can you stay safe amidst these extremely innovative times, especially when the rise of the Internet presents new risks?
Looking after personal safety needs to be a priority, whether it is for your health, your finances, your family, or your business at stake. Here are some tips to stay safe in this digital world.
Computer Safety Practices
When you use your computer or another device connected to the Internet, you are entering a vast global network. Connecting to this modem makes your device vulnerable to hackers or other dangerous programs that could impact your data and safety.
Protecting yourself from prying eyes on the computer is important and there are many ways to do so. Updated firewalls and anti-virus software are a good start.
Strong passwords that are not repeated among your various programs can also help secure your information. You should also be wary of opening suspicious attachments, clicking strange links, or downloading files from unsafe sources. All these circumstances could result in your data or device being compromised.
Using Fake Phone Numbers
In the digital world, many services and products require you to sign up with your personal information. This can range from simple information like gender to more valuable data like your address or phone number. In many cases, providing a fake phone number will not be sufficient if it is not a registered number.
However, if you want to know how to get a fake number for these situations, there are solutions where you can rent a real phone number so you do not have to enter your personal number. This can provide peace of mind and a little extra security.
Strengthen Home Security
The Internet is not the only place that can be a source of digital threats. Many home security systems are weak or vulnerable to cyber threats because they are connected to the Internet.
This means you need to invest in better home security to protect your property and family. Installing a smart home security system will give you greater control in securing your home, whether you are there or not.
However, if you do go with smart technology that is connected online, then you also need to upgrade firewalls and security software to ensure hackers cannot touch your home security system.
Research Online Brands Before Buying
Chances are that you do a lot of your browsing and shopping for products/services online. Many of these items can be bought online as well if you are willing to enter private and financial information. Consumers could fall victim to security compromises if they do not thoroughly research the brands they are purchasing from.
The main reason is to verify that the company is real. It can also reveal how a brand has invested in online security for customers. One tell-tale sign of good online security is if there is a two-factor authentication process in place for creating an account.
Since your financial information, such as a bank account number or credit card number will be shared, you want to ensure you are buying from brands that will protect that data.
Be Careful with Public Wifi
Private wifi networks have more security measures in place. This is why they are password protected, and as a result, they are less vulnerable to data theft. On the other hand, public wifi networks tend to be open to cyber-attacks and phishing programs.
If you are conducting business or making purchases while connected to a public wifi network, then your information is much more likely to be stolen. Save your more data-sensitive tasks on your devices for when you are connected to more secure networks to lower the risk of a security issue.
Cybersecurity is Paramount in 2023
Whether you have ever been the victim of a cyber threat or not, you never want to take online security for granted.
As technology advances, so do the methods of those who would steal your data and personal information. This means you must be willing to adapt and focus on personal safety in the digital world.
Start by practicing safety on the computer and other devices. Stay up-to-date with security software and updates. Use fake phone numbers that can be rented if you do not like giving out your real number.
Build up your home security to protect your property and family. Research online brands well before purchasing and avoid conducting data-heavy tasks on public wifi networks. All these practices will help you prioritize safety in the digital age.
