Smart Ways To Be Safer Online

In Fashion Technology by Melanie Shaw

Being safe online is essential so that you can maintain privacy and protect your personal information. You might not understand the importance of online safety and how to be as safe as possible. If so, you have come to the right place as this guide will share all the smart ways to be safer online.

Photo by Monstera

Change your IP address

Whether you use the internet for personal or business purposes, it is a smart idea to change your IP address. Your IP address is how other services track you as an online user. Hence, customizing your address means that you can be more private (and maybe even anonymous) online. Knowing how to change ip address on windows will enable you to take control of your online identity and maximize your safety.

Only use verified websites when you make a purchase

If you are using the internet to shop online, you need to ensure you are using verified sites so that your money is safe. It will help you manage your finances like a pro and guarantee you are not scammed. It can be easy for websites to look professional and disguise themselves. Therefore, ensure to do your research and only use popular websites that you know are legitimate. 

Unique passwords

An easy thing to do to be safer online is to use unique passwords. If you use a common password, it might be easy for a hacker to intrude on your private accounts. If you use something personal that nobody else could guess, you will be much safer. 

It is recommended to:

  • Use passwords that contain various characters. Using numbers and symbols in your passwords will make them more complex and challenging to intrude on. 
  • Use different passwords for various accounts. It is important to avoid using the same password for all accounts. If one account is hacked, it can all be hacked. Trying using various passwords (or variations of the same password) to secure your accounts.

Two-factor authentication

A smart way to increase the security of your passwords and login accounts is to use two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication requires two login attempts (one of which will involve another account or device). This means that nobody can access the account unless they have access to the password and the other device/account that is required for the second layer of verification. It can be more time-consuming to log in to accounts that use two-factor authentication, but it will guarantee to heighten your online safety. 

Antivirus software

Every computer user should install antivirus software on their devices. Not only does it protect your device overall, but it will play a part in how safe you are online. Antivirus software will detect dodgy websites, which will block them and prevent you from using them so that you do not get yourself into trouble. It is common to pay for antivirus software as these offer the best security. There are free options but they might not do much in terms of online safety. 

Have various email addresses

Although this is time-consuming and somewhat confusing, it is a smart idea to have various email addresses. If a phishing scam occurs to one address, it won’t impact all of your private data and information. Plus, it means you can manage different accounts for different purposes. For instance, you can have one account for online shopping and other for newsletters and reward schemes. Keeping things separate will enable you to be as organized as possible and as safe as possible online. 

Clear your cache and history

Clearing your cache and history frequently will remove personal information that hackers might be able to use against you. The more often this is cleared, the safer your online presence will be. It will remove save passwords, search history, and other personal information that can be used in a scam.

Don’t allow your computer to save passwords

Many modern computers now offer the user an option to save a password so that they do not need to enter it each time. However, accepting this offer means that should your computer get hacked, your passwords will be easily available for the hacker to use. Turning off this option will keep your passwords safe and allow you to be safer online.

Be aware of phishing scams

There are many phishing scams that can intrude on your personal data and hack your bank accounts. For example, clicking a link in a phishing scam email might allow the hacker to have access to your computer’s information, which contains your bank details and more. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of phishing scams and try your best not to fall for them. Many phishing emails are good at disguising themselves. However, ensure to look out for random email accounts and emails that you did not expect. 

Remain private on your social media accounts

Being private on social media is great for many reasons. It allows only your close friends and family to view your content. Plus, it means that not just anyone can know more about you. You might often share personal information and stories about yourself online. If you allow everyone to see, they can learn more about you and maybe use the information to hack your online accounts. 

The more private you are online, the better it will be for your online safety. At the end of the day, you likely use social media to catch up with loved ones and seek entertainment. Hence, remaining private is enough as you can still follow and view whoever you wish to. However, not just anyone can view your account. 

Using these tips, you can guarantee to maximize your online privacy and safety. Simply using various passwords, changing your IP address, and being more private can be enough to avoid hacking attacks and not be involved with scams. Understanding the importance of online safety will encourage you to pursue these measures and be as safe as possible online. 

About Melanie Shaw

Melanie Shaw is a fashion and lifestyle writer who has worked in the fashion industry in PR and communications, helping brands launch their latest products and collections.

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Melanie Shaw

Melanie Shaw is a fashion and lifestyle writer who has worked in the fashion industry in PR and communications, helping brands launch their latest products and collections.