With data breaches, online tracking, and cookies, we know protecting your privacy online is more complicated than ever. But luckily, with just a few steps, you can keep your identity and data secure from hackers.
Less Is More
We know it sounds like a no-brainer, but the most effective step you can take to protect your privacy is to share less. Sure, “social” media implies sharing info, but you don’t have to put it all out there to stay in touch. Be mindful of backdrops, geo-tags, or any other information you wouldn’t want strangers to know.
Take the Necessary Precautions
Make sure your passwords are unique. Always use a decent amount of characters with a mix of capital letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. You can also turn on two-factor authentication for any account that offers this feature. Typically all this involves is providing a phone number or recovery email to which a code can be sent when you log in on other devices. Never send any codes you receive to anyone who asks – it could be a scam!
Tighten the Reins
Review the privacy settings on all accounts to ensure they’re exactly how you want them. Pay extra careful attention to location tracking, what information is public, who can contact you, and who you interact with.
Delete Unused Apps
Apps collect data – even the ones you don’t use. And, unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for those apps to sell your information. Delete any apps you don’t use and close others when you’re not actively using them.
Opt for a Private Browser
Prevent your computer from saving your browsing history, personal information, and passwords by using a private browser. For example, on Chrome, the private browser is known as “incognito mode.” If you use the browser on your iPhone, you can turn on private browsing using the middle drop-down menu after swiping up with your browser open.
Click Carefully
Beware of scammers that attempt to trick you into providing personal information by sending spam emails that lead to fake websites. Once you enter that private info, it falls right into the hand of the scammers.
Stay Up to Date
Regularly update your browser to the newest version, as these updates typically have the latest built-in protection against fake websites and viruses.
Keep a Close Eye on Paper Statements
If you receive paper statements, shred them so no one can access your personal info. Certain keywords make it easier for scammers to guess your passwords. Another way to combat this is by opting for e-statements.
Use Only Secure Networks
Be careful when using public or free Wi-Fi – even if it feels safe because it requires a password. If this is your only option, your browser should let you know in the address bar if it’s secure or not. And when using Wi-Fi at home, ensure your network is encrypted and protected by a strong password.