The internet is just like a large city square: an environment where everyone shares their personal information, but also one filled with opportunities for fraud and data theft. However, online security isn’t as complicated as it’s thought to be. You can be much safer in the digital world with a few simple steps and free tools.
1. Install security updates immediately Software updates
on your devices are your first line of defense. When you receive an update notification, don’t postpone it; install it immediately. These updates prevent hackers from targeting you by closing vulnerabilities in the software. Especially security-focused patches are your strongest defense against cyberattacks.
2. Use strong passwords
Weak or easily guessable passwords are one of the most common causes of data breaches. Don’t use personal information like birthdates or pet names as passwords. Prefer long passwords made of random characters. If you don’t want to forget them, you can securely store and auto-fill all your passwords using a password manager.
3. Activate two-factor authentication (2FA)
Even the strongest password can be exposed in a data leak. In this case, two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an extra layer of security. You can protect your account thanks to a code sent to your phone or biometric authentication when logging in. Many platforms are now making this process more secure by using passwordless passkeys.
4. Back up your data Ransomware
can lock your device and demand money from you to recover your files. The easiest way to protect against such attacks is to back up regularly. Experts recommend the 3-2-1 rule:
- 3 different backups,
- on 2 different types of media,
- with 1 of them being in a physically separate location from the main system.
Many cyberattacks target human psychology rather than technical skill. Scammers may introduce themselves as a bank, government institution, or a trustworthy person. If there is language in emails or messages creating urgency or panic, stop and investigate. Check the sender’s address, the design, and the accuracy of the message.
6. Check links before clicking Phishing attacks
generally use fake links. When you receive a suspicious email or link, hover your mouse over the link to check the real URL before clicking. You can also find out if a link is safe using free URL scanning tools (for example, NordVPN’s tool).
Sharing too much information about your private life on social media makes the job easier for scammers. Information like your vacation dates, your children’s names, or your pet can be used in identity theft attacks. Limit this type of content and be especially careful with seemingly harmless quizzes like “find your childhood nickname.”
8. Use a VPN Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
protect your online identity by hiding your IP address. A VPN connects to the internet through its own server instead of yours and encrypts your data. This way, third parties cannot see which sites you visit, and you can browse more securely even on public Wi-Fi networks. Proton VPN stands out among free and reliable VPNs.
9. Run regular virus scans Malware
can infect your device without you noticing when downloading files from the internet. An up-to-date antivirus program detects suspicious files during download and quarantines them if necessary. Although Windows Defender is sufficient for Windows users, an additional anti-malware software provides extra protection.
10. Use email masks and private search engines
Using your real email address when opening new accounts increases the risk of spam and data leaks. You can create a temporary address with email masking services and forward incoming messages to your real email. You can also prevent your search history from being tracked by using privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo instead of Google.
11. Get your data deleted from the internet
Many data brokers collect and sell your personal information. However, most are obligated to delete this data when you request it. To facilitate this process, you can use data removal services like DeleteMe or Incogni.
12. Don’t forget physical security Cybersecurity
is not just about digital measures. Leaving your devices open in public spaces gives thieves an opportunity to install malware. Protect your phone with a biometric lock, do not leave your devices unattended, and be careful not to let unauthorized people into secure areas at work.
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