We all live and breadth the internet. On average, we spent almost 5 hours every day accessing our phones or computer for various reasons. Sometimes, our regular job involves them; sometimes, we spend hours on our entertainment. And of course, one common factor in all of them is the use of the internet.
So, as crucial it is, the question remains, how much wary we are using the internet? You may think you have an antivirus in place and sometimes a 3rd-party company for your rescue, but will that make your internet use safe? Therefore, in this article, we will dig deep and tell you 8 steps to protect yourself from cyber frauds
Also Read: 5 Tips to Maximize Anonymity of Your Internet Connection
How to Stay Safe from Cyber Frauds
When you hear and read about the range of cybercrimes out there, you might be tempted to stop using the internet entirely. That’s probably too drastic. Instead, it’s a good idea to know how to stay safe from cyber frauds.
1. Use any Reputed Internet Security
First things first, you should avail yourself of an internet security pack. That is the primary line of defense, to begin with.
There are tons of software bundles you can choose from, like Norton, Kaspersky, McAfee, and many more. Yes, there is a subscription that you need to pay for, but it is completely worth using.
2. Use Stronger Passwords
At times, we focus on some intricate things like Antivirus, Anti-malware, and many more, we tend to overlook some basic elements. Online Credential is one of such things.
A lot of people still use their phone numbers or birthdays as passwords. We, however, advise you to use strong alpha-numeric passwords—something tough to guess. Your online protection starts with you.
3. Update Software as it arrives
Remember, any OS you are using – Windows, Mac, or Linux, always intend to make the platform safe and secure to use.
So, whenever you get any online updates, we suggest installing them as when you get them. Don’t forget to check your internet security, whether or not it is getting all the updates in time.
Also Read: 10 Ways to Protect Your Computer from Hacker
4. Social Media Settings Management
Social media is one of the easiest places to get information about anyone. What you should do is make it difficult for anyone who tries to get your information.
So, we suggest you check all your social media accounts’ settings and change your privacy settings visible to you only. That will ensure your data.
5. Understanding and Improving Home Network
Like any online accounts, you should also make sure to use secure passwords for your home networks. If you are using a router, we suggest changing the password on a regular interval.
We also advise you to use a VPN if possible. It ensures maximum security each time you access the internet.
6. Understanding Major Security Breaches
There are times when we discover the news that multi-billion-dollar tech companies’ security has been breached. We think it is nowhere related to us. But suppose it is Google or Microsoft, who doesn’t own an email account or a cloud service with either company.
We suggest you inquire to those companies in which you have an account or have shared your information. You should figure out the compromised data.
7. Safeguard Yourself from Identity Thefts
The Internet is a tricky place to be. Each time you share your personal information, you are potentially putting yourself at risk. So, you must understand who you are sharing data with.
We again urge you to use a VPN if it is feasible. Don’t share any information over the phone with any individual or company, as well.
Also Read: How to Stay Safe When Meeting People Online
8. Check out Your kids’ Online Activities
Kids being kids do stuff that they aren’t supposed to do. So, it is your job to make them aware of everything, and second, they should understand the consequences. Your kids shouldn’t have direct access to your credit or debit card details or bank information.
Also, it is essential to keep an eye on their online activities without tampering with their privacy. Better safe than sorry!
Conclusion
If you are a victim of any cyber-crime or online fraud, you should contact the cyber-crime department as soon as possible. In many countries, however, there are no specific departments.
In that scenario, contact local law officials. Please note that there are many things in place to help you in your crisis. However, it would be best if you exercised prevention to stop that from happening in the first place.
