How to secure yourself online?

Why securing yourself online matters?

The rule: More the number of Internet users more the security risks online.

Cyber threats has become so common today that it’s present everywhere. Many companies and government agencies all over the globe has created policies that help minimize the potential risks online.

The explosive growth of social media over the years is making personal information available across the digital world, which in a sense creates a challenge to protect our personal and financial data online.

75% of the online population is using the Internet directly or indirectly and out of that 63% has social media presence.

Social media usage is one of the most sought after online activity and with this comes high risk of cyber fraud. We can minimize the impacts if we follow some basic internet safety tips.

Dos & Don’ts online

Dos

1. Protect personal information with strong password/PIN
2. Keep things private
3. Always go for software updates
4. Secure your smartphone, computer systems, routers etc. from both online and offline attacks
5. Use a strong WIFI password
6. Set-up a two-factor authentication
7. Back up all your personal data
8. Always lock your device with a strong password or PIN (Phone|Computer system)
9. Review your privacy settings
10. Use good antivirus software
11. Turn on Web browser blacklisting
12. Always update your browser
13. Close unused accounts
14. Turn on firewall if you are a windows user
15. Keep your devices attended
16. Update the apps on your phone regularly
17. Always use genuine software 
18. Turn off Bluetooth if not in use
19. Use the Internet responsibly
20. Tell someone if you are bullied or threatened online

Don’ts

1. Don’t click on email links
2. Don’t download bogus apps
3. Don’t use free public WIFIs
4. Don’t post sensitive photos| information
5. Don’t skip setting up two-factor authentication
6. Don’t use the same password everywhere
7. Don’t take quizzes online esp.  on Facebook
8. Don’t use http sites for personal or financial matters
9. Don’t entertain people online (what shines is not always gold)
10. Don’t make any financial transaction from the network you are not comfortable with esp. Internet cafes or free WIFIs
11. Don’t share password
12. Never share OTPs
13. Don't fall for free services (when something is free then remember you are the product)
14. Don't share your email and phone number with people you don't know
15. Don't forward links on social media 
16. Don't use pirated or cracked software
17. Don't use simple passwords like admin, 12345. 987654321 or your name.
18. Don't let web browsers remember your username and password esp. if its not your device
19. Arrange to meet people you have met online
20. Don't open any attachments from unknown source

Note - The quieter your become, the more you hear.