4 Biggest Internet Security Mistakes
Unfortunately, along with the convenience of the Internet, also come a lot of risks. Without taking the right precautions, and by committing foolish mistakes, you can fall victim to cyber-attacks. If your personal information gets into the wrong hands, it could result in a considerable amount of trouble for you and your family.
Although there is no single solution that can eliminate the possibility of cyberattacks entirely, there are certain things that can greatly reduce your chances. Take a look at some of the biggest Internet security mistakes that you should avoid at all costs to protect yourself online.
Simple Passwords
Most hackers know the most common passwords that people choose. It’s unwise to use the name of your pet, your birthdate or your mother’s maiden name. Experts recommend using a combination of characters, letters, and numbers in your password to avoid people hacking into your accounts. Make sure it’s random, yet also easy to remember. Lastly, don’t forget that you should change your password every few months and never use the same password across multiple websites.
Clicking Harmful Links
If you receive an email from an unknown sender with the link or attachment, don’t open it. A fake email can contain a virus or spyware that could grab all of the information on your computer. Always verify the sender before following potentially dangerous links.
Downloading Harmful Files
Some people aren’t careful enough when it comes to downloading files. They may fall for the trap of downloading free software only to find that the file contains a harmful virus. Downloading any kind of software from an unknown source is likely to infect your computer.
If you see any free offers pop up, make sure that you carefully look for the source. If there are any doubts in your mind, always err on the side of caution.
Sharing Too Much Personal Information Online
In today’s social media culture, more and more people are willing to share their private lives. While it can be a great way to stay close with friends and family near and far, it’s better to avoid posting certain things. Don’t share any valuable information, such as your address phone number or Social Security number.
Although you might not want to believe that people on your network have bad intentions, it’s not unheard of to be targeted in such a manner.
It’s also important to be careful about posting when you’re out of town. Sharing the fact that you’re on vacation publicly could lead to someone robbing your home. Most security experts recommend posting your vacation photos after you’ve gotten home to avoid thieves.
By applying these tips , and being informed about the latest Internet scams, you will have a better chance of staying safe online.
