Keeping your data safe on the internet is becoming more challenging every day. There are always new accounts to create, and sites keep asking for your information, which exposes your data to many different companies and potential threats.
With that said, you’re not entirely left at the mercy of the internet. You can do several things to improve the security of your data and ensure it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. This article will show you how to make your online data unhackable through some cybersecurity tips:
Use strong passwords
A strong password makes a massive difference in your online security. Yet, many people use the same, easy password they’ve been using for the past ten years. If you’re one of those people, consider making a change, as it’s only a matter of time before you get hacked.
With that said, coming up with different strong passwords for so many accounts isn’t easy. That’s why many people are starting to use password managers to stay on top of their online security. Password managers will help you by generating strong passwords for all accounts and storing them securely where only you can access them.
Enable security features for sensitive accounts
Nowadays, almost every service you use has an app that makes using the service easier. Take banking, for example; you probably barely go to the bank anymore and use their app instead. Apps containing sensitive information like bank accounts, social security numbers, etc., typically have solid security features to protect users.
Perhaps the most popular one is two-factor authentication. Enable 2FA for all accounts, as it will require you to confirm your identity before logging in instead of just asking for the password. On social media apps, you can typically limit the visibility and activity of your account.
Other security features include:
- Anti-phishing tools for browsers;
- Antivirus and firewall;
- Plugin security tool, and more.
Protect your web browsing
Web browsing is another source of threat to your online security. Websites and companies are constantly tracking your activity, and hackers are always lurking and are ready to take advantage of any mistake you make.
One example of a mistake is if you click on a malicious ad, also known as malvertising. It’s best to disable ads altogether by installing an ad-blocker extension to your browser. Opt out of data tracking from your most popular websites and disable cookies.
The less of your data is on the internet, the better. It doesn’t matter if the companies controlling your data are multi-billion dollar corporations. A breach in their network can easily expose your data as well.
Update your apps and system
You’ll often hear security professionals preach about software updates. Yet, how many of you have a pending software update on your phone right now? I’m betting that at least a few of you do. This is dangerous because old software versions contain known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit at any moment.
Software developers are smart, but threat actors are too. The two groups play a constant cat-and-mouse game of finding and fixing vulnerabilities. Installing all the latest updates ensures that all security fixes are applied, significantly lowering the chance of a breach.
Software updates are essential for both the apps you have installed and the operating system itself. To minimize the risk of faulty apps causing damage to your privacy, delete all apps you’re not actively using.
Install a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the wisest investments you can make for your data security. Your internet traffic is never as hidden as you’d think (even if you delete your browser’s history). ISPs keep your traffic data and sometimes even sell it to companies.
There are also threat actors who can intercept your network if it’s not configured correctly. That’s often the case with public networks you’d find in cafes, restaurants, etc.
Perhaps the easiest way to protect against these threats is by installing a VPN. The VPN will add another player into the mix – a third server acting as an intermediary between your device and the network. This allows you to hide your internet traffic and mask your IP address, making it impossible for hackers to intercept.
Conclusion
Keeping your data private online has become quite a challenge. There are many entry points for threat actors to take advantage of, leaving many people vulnerable. But while becoming entirely unhackable is next to impossible, there are several things you can do to significantly improve your security posture on the internet.
