How To Avoid Online Security Issues

It doesn’t matter if your online activities are at a personal or corporate level, Internet security is of the utmost importance. That is why many companies have hired IT companies in Ottawa, NY, LA, or wherever the company is based. And, with hacking incidents spreading like online wildfire, it’s only a matter of time until your personal information is compromised. Luckily, there are a few ways to stop those pesky, identity-stealing attacks before they have a chance to ruin your cyber life.

Keep Updates Up-To-Date

Image via Flickr by Chris Amelung

Anti-virus and malware software is pretty much useless if you don’t update it regularly. So, complete all recommended updates, download and install any upgrades, and run all security software on a regular basis.

It sounds like a lot of work, but hackers work even harder to come up with new and improved viruses everyday that are able to infiltrate outdated software. Likewise, your system’s firewall needs to be on par with the rest of your security software, considering it’s your network’s first line of defense.

Outsmart Scams

Hackers prey on the general public’s trust, so the more skeptical you are in terms of your online livelihood, the better. By simply avoiding suspicious emails and links, you’ll escape the hook that comes along with phishing scams.

If you receive an email from a company that seems legitimate, but you aren’t sure, contact the company directly as opposed to replying through the email. One bad link could result in your system being infested with malware or other viruses. Or, you might end up revealing personal information you didn’t intend to share.

Do the Password Shuffle

The changing of your passwords is equivalent to the changing of the guard when it comes to your online security. Continuously updated passwords serve as various points of protection for your online world, especially if you use those passwords to access sites that include your personal information.

Additionally, the changing and updating of your passwords is only as effective as the strength of each password. So, choose strong, case-sensitive passwords and never use the same one for multiple accounts. Likewise, avoid choosing passwords based on easily found personal information like family names and birthplaces.

Don’t Reveal Too Much

Hackers love to scout social media websites for personal information on unsuspecting victims. Because of this, it’s wise to keep to yourself, especially when it relates to your online activities.

For example, if you love shopping at certain online retailers, don’t create a post about it. Hackers will use social networking against you to figure out what websites you have accounts with and infiltrate them using specific information you provide about yourself.

Lock Your Devices

Whether it’s a laptop or smartphone, if your device is stolen, your personal information is vulnerable to any number of hacking techniques. So, to keep your data safe, always log out of information sensitive sites, don’t store passwords, and lock your device with a password only you know.

To take things a step further, install a remote data-wiping app on all your portable devices. This will give you the ability to remotely lock down and wipe clean any data on your stolen device.

By using the techniques above, you can rest assured that your online world is secure.