We all know how the Internet has entered our daily lives. However, as the world becomes more connected, online threats are becoming more and more sophisticated. This means that protecting your personal and financial data is more important than ever, but also more complicated than ever.
Here are some important tips to help you stay safe and keep your peace of mind online:
Use strong, unique passwords for every account
Passwords are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your accounts. However, many users still reuse simple passwords across multiple platforms, making them easy for hackers. To improve your security, create strong, unique passwords for every account – combining letters, numbers and special characters. Using a password manager to securely store and generate complex passwords ensures that you don’t need to rely on memory or repetition. Password managers can be purchased as standalone subscriptions, but are also often included with security suites such as Bitdefender Premium Security and Bitdefender Ultimate Security.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MGA) and two-factor authentication (2FA) add an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second form of authentication beyond just a password. This can be a one-time code sent to your phone, a biometric scan, or an app-based authenticator. If MFA or 2FA is enabled, even if your password is compromised, unauthorized access is almost impossible without secondary authentication. Learn more about applying for an MFA here.
Be aware of phishing attempts
Phishing is a common threat online where fraudsters trick users into providing sensitive information by impersonating legitimate entities. These scams often appear as fake emails, text messages or websites. To combat this threat, educate yourself on how to identify scams, and use detection tools like Bitdefender’s Scam Copilot, which detects and blocks scams in your email, browser, messages and other applications. Scam Copilot is included in Bitdefender’s Premium and Ultimate security suites.
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Keep your software updated
Outdated software makes you a target for hackers looking to exploit vulnerabilities. Whether it’s your operating system, browser, apps and antivirus software, keeping everything up to date ensures you benefit from the latest security patches and features. Most software platforms offer automatic updates – make sure this is enabled to stay protected without the hassle of manual checks.
Use comprehensive security software
Investing in reliable security software is one of the best ways to protect your devices. At the very least, you should get a no-frills antivirus like Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, which will keep you protected from malware, spyware and ransomware. Meanwhile, security suites like Bitdefender Premium Security and Bitdefender Ultimate Security bundle in many other useful tools, such as Scam Copilot scam detection, unlimited VPN, password manager and more. Read more about security suites here.
Practice safe browsing habits
Cybercriminals often exploit malicious online behavior to gain access to sensitive information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading files from unverified sources, or visiting unsecured websites. Although the presence of the HTTPS pad in the browser no longer indicates that the website is safe to visit, it is still a good sign that the data you are about to enter will not be blocked on its way to its destination. Never send sensitive information to sites that do not offer HTTPS connections. You should also limit the amount of personal information you share online to reduce your exposure to potential attacks.
Educate yourself and stay informed
At the end of the day, online safety starts with you. Stay informed about the latest cyber threats. As you read this article, you already know that PCMag is a good place to start. Cybersecurity providers also share information about the threats they face, such as on this Bitdefender blog. Knowledge is power, and by educating yourself, you can further protect yourself from potential dangers.
Stay safe there!