Hackers are becoming more daring day by day. They have devised sneaky ways to illegitimately access any system, take over it and steal sensitive information. The job will be easier if you have a very weak security network. It is therefore important for you to know the things to do to prevent you from being hacked.
Use a password manager
We already agreed that using “password” or “12345” for any of your passwords is handing hackers unhindered entry into your account. All the passwords you use for your online accounts should be strong and unique. What this really means is they should include a mixture of different character types, and not be used across multiple websites. The best way to do this is by using a password manager. Password managers create strong passwords for you and store them securely.
Clear your digital footprint
The past can come back to haunt you. The old online accounts you no longer use and the login details that belong to them can be weaponized against you if you don’t do anything about them. Hackers frequently use details from previous data breaches to access the accounts people currently use. Reducing the amount of information that’s available about your online life can help cut your risk of being hacked. A very simple step is to regularly delete your Google search history.
Know how to identify phishing attacks
Quickly clicking any digital item you receive can be risky. When a new email or text message arrives, and it includes something that can be tapped or clicked, your instincts often lead you to do it straight away. Don’t. Hackers have used the pandemic as cover to launch wave after wave of phishing attacks and dumb Google Drive scams. The main thing to do is to think before you click. Scam messages try to trick people into behaving in a way they wouldn’t normally—with, say, pretend instant demands from a boss or messages that say an urgent response is required.
Update everything
Every piece of technology you use—from the Facebook app on your phone to the operating system that controls your smart lightbulb—is open to attack. Thankfully, companies are always finding new bugs and fixing them. That’s why it’s crucial you download and update the latest versions of the apps and software you’re using.
Use multi-factor authentication
Arguably the most effective thing you can do to protect your online accounts is turning on multi-factor, or two-factor, authentication for as many of your accounts as possible. The method uses a secondary piece of information—often a code generated by an app or sent via SMS—alongside a password.
Encrypt everything
Protecting your communications has never been easier. Using encrypted services means that what you’re sending is better protected against surveillance and won’t be accessible if your device gets lost or stolen.
