In an era where our digital footprint can tell the story of our lives, it has become more important than ever to keep our information secure. Everything from our email to online banking, credit cards, and personal photos need to be protected.
Hacking generally refers to unauthorized intrusion into a computer or a network. The person engaged in hacking activities is known as a hacker. This hacker may alter system or security features to accomplish a goal that differs from the original purpose of the system.
Hacking can also refer to non-malicious activities, usually involving unusual or improvised alterations to equipment or processes.
Theft is not the only thing on the mind of a hacker: Sheer destruction is a major motivator. Hackers may want to destroy all your records, put a sick message on your customers’ screens or just destroy your reputation.
Use Strong Passwords
When Setting a Password, avoid using common terms. Hackers have an algorithm for detecting them.
A strong password consists of at least six characters that are a combination of letters, numbers and symbols (@, #, $, %, etc.) if allowed. They are typically case-sensitive.
Examples of Strong Password (Don’t Use them)
- r_123$$4VRT6$%%891
- a@A%+{}C6^9><?
Most people use the same password for multiple accounts. If one account gets hacked, hackers can gain access to all accounts.
Turn on two-factor authentication or a FIDO key.
two-factor authentication is used for most critical accounts such as banking, email, facebook, etc.
Every time somebody attempts to log into the account a message is sent to your phone containing a temporary verification code. To log in, you must enter the code. If somebody figures out your password, they still need your phone to get into your account.
A FIDO Key is a physical USB key for accessing certain accounts. Think of it as an ignition key for your car but for your email and other logins. If it’s not plugged in, you–or anyone else–are not going to be able to get in.
Take Caution in Cyber Cafe
Modern day Internet Browsers have a feature that pops up when you enter your username and password in a login page. It prompts you to save your login details. When It pops up on a public computer, Click “Don’t Save”.
Clicking “Save” would mean… that next time when the page is loaded, your username and password would be filled automatically.
Therefore, after logging out, and finding your way out, a hacker can just request for time, load your history, hit the login page, have your details filled, and login.
Clean up regularly
Think of data like pollution: dangerous, long-lasting, and once it leaks there’s no getting it back.
You may have old accounts with old passwords that you never use. Take the time to clean out your digital files and store them somewhere safe.
Use a VPN when necessary
A Virtual Private Network is a connection method used to add security and privacy to private and public networks, like WiFi Hotspots and the Internet.
Virtual Private Networks are most often used by corporations to protect sensitive data.
It is impossible not to be online today if you want to be productive. However, with these tips in mind, you can do it with security and peace of mind.
