Like in the real world, the internet has an infinite number of offerings, from products and services to knowledge and social platforms and communities. It is an endless source of just about anything. But much like in the real world, the internet has a sinister side, with users with malicious intentions. As the internet and technology continue to expand and develop, our need for better cybersecurity increases just as much, perhaps even more. Here is how to keep yourself cybersafe in 2022:
- Keep your antivirus and firewall active and up-to-date
Your antivirus and firewall are your first lines of defense against attacks. Keeping these up to date and active ensures that your computer or device is secure by detecting and deleting viruses or blocking unauthorized access to your computer, making it less susceptible to attacks from malware.
2. Create stronger passwords
This one should be a no-brainer, but alas, it needs to be repeated. Creating longer passwords with a mix of symbols, numbers, and letters in both lower and upper cases decreases the likelihood of hackers being able to guess your password. In cases where hackers use programs that make use of brute-force testing, having a complicated password helps in slowing down the process, allowing users enough time to change their password if alerted about the threat.
3. Be cautious concerning your downloads
As mentioned before, the internet is an endless pool of resources and software. However, ensuring internet safety means that you need to be careful about what you download and, more importantly, what you install. This is especially pertinent regarding files or applications that are downloaded outside your device’s affiliated app store or widely known and trusted platforms. While a file or application may seem harmless, there is a possibility that it could contain malware that will corrupt your device.
4. Avoid websites that ask for unnecessary personal information
While we move towards a more algorithmic internet, more and more of our data is used to teach and expand the algorithms’ understanding and learning. This has made us used to divulging more of our personal information to the internet. It is important that while this occurs, we remain vigilant about the kind of information that is being asked of us. If the information being asked for does not correspond with what is required, then you may have come into contact with a phishing scheme. Phishing occurs when malicious users trick other users into giving them their personal information, such as identities and bank details, that could be used malevolently.
5.Be cautious about what you share on social media
As social media platforms have continued to become commonplace in society, people have become more and more comfortable sharing their personal anecdotes and snapshots of their lives. However, it is still important to maintain a certain level of privacy to ensure not only your digital but your physical safety as well. Doxxing is a big concern on social media. It involves the “search for and publishing private or identifying information about (a particular individual) on the internet, typically with malicious intent.” Being negligent about your privacy makes you more susceptible to doxxing, which can have escalating, dangerous repercussions.
The use of the internet is an intrinsic part of our economic and social transactions, cementing its status as a necessity within society. A lot of our time is spent on the internet, and from its conception, it has become a part of the human experience. Hence, why we need to protect ourselves whilst using it. Unfortunate occurrences happen in life, and we prepare and protect ourselves against them. We need to protect ourselves on the internet in the same way.
