While using the internet can be a fantastic experience, there are a number of risks to be aware of. From identity theft to phishing, the threats are plentiful. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to keep safe while surfing the web.
Never Give Away Personal Info
Firstly, never hand out your private details online. Whether you are entering log-in data for an online email account or talking to a client via instant messaging, avoid sharing information such as your address, telephone number, bank account, credit card numbers, etc. This will help avoid identity theft in the future.
Download from Legitimate Sites
If you plan on downloading anything, always check whether the source is safe and legal. There are plenty of malicious websites offering free programs, movies and music which are simply there to infect your computer. Only download from secure sources which remain compliant with international copyright law.
Use Anti-virus and Spam Software
Protect your computer by installing anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-spam software. The best will remain constantly upgraded while offering state-of-the-art protection against the latest cyber threats. Avoid free software and opt for something paid as these provide better security and support.
Know Your Privacy Settings
When signing up to an online service, always check the privacy settings. You should have the power to:
- Restrict who can contact you
- Limit who can see your private info
- Block certain shared user features
- Set up added security capabilities
Make the effort to browse your settings and see that your machine is protected and safe.
Only Respond to Trusted Senders
Lastly, reply solely to messages from reliable sources. If you receive an email or chat from someone you don’t know, ignore it. If possible, mark that message as spam and report it. In this way, you won’t expose yourself to anyone who may want to infect your computer.