Now more than ever, people are concerned about digital security. With the world transitioning at such a fast pace, maintaining and protecting one’s privacy online is becoming an adverse challenge for everyone. It doesn’t take much for anyone to start digging and find out valuable and confidential information about you. Every little thing, from a harmless Google search to using the Internet of Things (IoT) tech in your smart home, has the power to exploit our privacy in ways we cannot imagine.
We cannot depend on technology to safeguard our privacy. We have to do it ourselves by taking thoughtful measures. There are hundreds and thousands of malicious hackers, cyber attackers, and exploiters waiting to attack our privacy and gain valuable information; therefore, protecting our privacy online and maintaining digital security should always be our top priority. These hackers and attackers are always after data as it’s the heart of privacy. And guess what, data is more vulnerable and accessible in today’s time than it was ever before.
If you’ve come across this article about data protection online, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up a few tips to help you strengthen your online security and make sure all your data and information online is protected and secure. Let’s check them out!
-
Implement Two-Factor Authentication On All Your Accounts
Two-factor authentication uses 2 factors to confirm your identity instead of the usual one time. Withdrawing cash out of an ATM is a fine example of two-factor authentication. It asks for a four-digit pin when you insert your card to confirm your identity when withdrawing cash. Your Facebook account also uses two-factor authentication to confirm your identity before logging into your account.
-
Switch Off Location Tracking Until Necessary
Your phone can act as a tracker if you’re not careful. Hackers and attackers can easily track your location and whereabouts if your location tracking is switched on in your phone settings. Along with switching off GPS tracking and live location in your phone settings, make sure the apps you’ve downloaded aren’t using your location to gather data. Turn off location tracking on every app by going into your settings.
-
Run a Privacy Checkup On Google
Did you know that every search query you’ve entered on Google has been recorded and stored in Google history? Google has more information on you than any other software, app, or device. Running a privacy checkup is important in this case. You want to make sure whatever information and data Google has, from your search and location history to your voice recordings and saved bookmarks, isn’t vulnerable. Moreover, you want to make sure none of your activities are being tracked by Google.
By exploring Google settings, you can turn off and control what Google tracks.
-
Always Trust Encrypted Platforms
Encrypted platforms like Whatsapp add an extra layer of security by encrypting your messages, conversations and media shared with other people. Encrypted platforms are more than important in maintaining your online privacy, specifically chats, emails, and media files. Hackers have a difficult time decoding encrypted messages and fail to fetch sensitive data.
-
Employ a Password Manager
This is a basic lesson that we’ve all been taught since middle school – use a unique password. Your password should be long enough and include special characters, numbers, and symbols that aren’t easily identifiable. Make sure your passwords don’t include any identifiable information like your name, birth date, or address. Use a password manager to keep a check on all your passwords across all your accounts.
-
Always Use a VPN On Public Wi-Fi
Use a VPN whenever your devices are connected to a public Wi-Fi network. It hides your IP address and encrypts your information and activity making it difficult to track. Hackers are always lingering around public Wi-Fi networks to attack your device and steal your personal information. Moreover, never use and enter sensitive information like bank account details, etc. on a public Wi-Fi network!
Wait until you’re on a private network or secure internet plan to access sensitive information. Sign up for AT&T home internet plans as they are designed to ensure the complete security of your data online!
To Sum Up!
It’s always important to start somewhere and take an extra step towards online security yourself. Remember, hackers, are only one step ahead of the law! Follow these steps and make sure your data never falls into the wrong hands.
