Are you a 'cybersecurity ninja'? Be safe online

Let's face it – nowadays, there's no single soul who doesn't have an online presence, be it even a small one. Even my grandma recently asked me if she can't get on "that Faybook you all kids use these days" :)  And this got me thinking that, even though some internet users are security addicts and know how to protect themselves online, there is always the case with those people that are not aware or don't pay enough attention to threats.

Yes, it can happen to you too

Unfortunately, in this world of advancements and groundbreaking tech innovations, there is also a downside - more hackers and better stealing techniques.

People need to understand that in the moment they get online or start using a device, they become a target. That's all it takes. But this doesn't mean you have to live in fear or stop using the internet. All you need to do is be aware of the danger and bypass it.

How? There are ways.

First thing first. Start acting like a target

Well, we've already established that you can't live in fear. But you can live cautiously and teach others to do the same. Increased awareness and better online management can save the day.

Shopping online? Shop carefully

I'm sure you already know what you can do to shop securely, but let's go over the basics again:

• Use only trustworthy websites. Also, login from a known network and secure locations
• Try, as much as possible, to use only your device when making online purchases – your data can be copied and used by cybercriminals to steal your money
• It would be great if you didn't save your credit card details in an online account
• Always looks for merchants that use 2FA – extra security layers can be annoying and you might feel that it messes up your experience, but keep in mind that it’s there to protect you. So stop avoiding it!
• Use strong passwords and make sure no one knows them - more on how to create complex passwords and how often to change them here
• Additionally, if you use multiple passwords, you might wanna try a password manager, a tool that stores all login information and securely encrypts and password protects that information
• Check your transactions as well as your financial data on a regular basis to make sure all is in order
• Avoid sharing your computer with someone else

Social networks – friends or foes?

Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, to name just a few, we're on all of them. We share our personal information, work details, pieces of our lives – and at what cost? Make sure you have a strong password for all of these networks and do not overshare - you don't have to tell the whole world your birth date, mother’s maiden name, pet’s name or any other sensitive information.

Beyond guarding what you share and how you share it, pay attention to whom you become friends with. If you do not know someone, better avoid sharing your online profile with him. It is all known the fact that fraudsters usually create fake accounts to trick users.

Antivirus, anti-malware, anti-everything

Start with the beginning. If you have a computer, install a good antivirus and an anti-malware software that will protect it against malware and spyware. Keep them up-to-date and back up your data regularly. Furthermore, pay attention to the content you download on your device, be cautious when it comes to unknown attachments, new flash drives, external hard drives and even smartphones.

Keep an inventory

Speaking from experience, I can tell you that most of the times we keep on our computers a lot of apps, programs and documents we no longer use or need. Make a habit of checking your device regularly and remove anything you haven't used in the last 3-6 months.

Don't talk and don't open the door to strangers

Mum really did know what she was talking about. Although we are no longer home alone kids, this is truer than ever. Fraudsters are quite innovative when it comes to finding new ways to manipulate us. So, if unknown people call or email you to ask for your personal information, the safest thing to do is say no. Genuine companies never ask for such details via email or phone. If you want to double-check, just call your bank or company in question.

Don't hide it. Shame is nothing compared to bankruptcy

If you see some suspicious activity on your bank statement don't hesitate to contact your bank right away. Furthermore, check your security measures and make sure they're up-to-date and doing their job correctly.

If you find that you have fallen prey to a scam, report it to the authorities. It can happen to anyone, no need to feel ashamed. The best thing you can do is spread the word and try to identify the things that might have led to this unfortunate event. Should you feel expert help is needed to better protect yourself, ask for it.

An educated public is a safer public.  Keep that in mind and stay safe online.

What do you do to protect your information online?