Negosentro | Ways To Improve Your Data Security | The world feels more interconnected than ever before. The rise of computer software and the internet can make connecting effortless. You can video chat with your grandchildren, email a pen pal in Europe, or keep tabs on your spouse while traveling. However, even with all of these pros, there are still cons. This means that individuals across the globe can try and access your data. Being alert and learning how to improve the security of your data can help you stay one step ahead of these data breaches.
Be Alert for Fraudulent Callers
Telephones predate the internet and computer software. However, scammers use them to try and access your information. Caller ID is a helpful tool to identify phone numbers you don’t know. However, know that scammers will use Caller ID Spoofing to get through to you. Protect your personal information. Don’t willingly give away items like your credit card numbers, social security numbers, bank account number, or health insurance member number. If a caller insists you’re going to be in trouble if you don’t hand it over, hang up. Call that institution directly and ask about this situation.
Identify Spam Email
Data breaches can occur through your email as well. You open up an email claiming you won a gift card. You excitedly click the link to claim it. Next thing you know, your computer has a virus. Or, you gave away your personal information to someone claiming to be your banking official. Be alert for these kinds of emails. If an offer seems too good to be true, then it likely is. You can check the email addresses of those who send these messages. They will put the name of an institution but have an email address that doesn’t match.
Learn How To Create Strong Passwords
Sometimes we have so many online accounts it is hard to keep track of passwords. It can be tempting to just put in something like “1234” or “ABCD.” However, you are leaving your account vulnerable to being breached. Choose a strong password every time you make an online account. Think of a place, event, or word that is special to you. Substitute numbers, characters, and capital letters into the word to make it difficult for a hacker to guess.
Understand Good Authentication Standards
There are other ways to authenticate as well. These include two-factor authentication. For accounts that need extra security, you might want to look into fido authentication. This eliminates the need for sole security reliance on a password. It makes it much harder for hackers to try and breach your data.
Install Updates Immediately
The world lives in an age of smartphones, tablets, and computers. All of them can be vulnerable to data breaches. It is why software developers will create regular updates for these products. Don’t delay when you see that an update is ready to be installed on your device. This means that your device is vulnerable to being hacked. These updates are not just for your computer software. They can include security programs, word processing software, and even games you’ve downloaded. Keep up to date with these items too. It can feel annoying to have to restart your computer or phone. However, getting your data stolen is much more of a headache.
Back-Up Your Data
Sometimes, even with precautions, you find your data has been stolen. Sometimes, if your device has been hacked, you can’t operate it anymore. This is why it is important to backup important data regularly. That way, even if your device is not operating or a hacker wiped your data, you still have access to what is important. If you can, back up your data in several places. Some possibilities include external hard drives or cloud-based software.
It is understandable to feel vulnerable in this digital world. However, don’t feel like you have to throw away all contact with the internet. Just be aware of the risks you could come across by simply having digital access.
