Online security made easy

Here is a simple guide to protecting your information on the internet

Online security breaches occur on a daily basis, with many people being defrauded out of their money and their identity. Many people unknowingly hand private data over to hackers on a silver platter. Here is a simple guide to protecting yourself and your personal information from internet hackers.

Before we discuss what to do to prevent security infringements, let’s look at the ways in which hackers pick their victims. We’ll also look at how we share information online, and what makes it easy for these hackers to commit cyber-crimes.

Sharing isn’t always caring

The majority of the population uses Facebook almost every day. Think about the information you share on the platform. People like to get validation from their friends, so things like holiday plans, bank choice, job titles and big purchases become public knowledge. You’d be surprised at how much you could learn about a stranger who you have never met.

The same goes for sharing personal information such as contact details and banking information through emails; whether you’re emailing friends, using an online app or responding to fake requests. Not every email or app request is legitimate and there are specific hints to look out for when you receive these prompts.

Prevention proclamation

There are many ways to protect yourself and it all starts by being vigilant online. Keep an eye on your account balances regularly as well as your profiles on social media platforms. If you find anything out of the ordinary, report an issue.

Try not to share all your personal information online. Your friends on Facebook do not need to know that you’re overseas. Call people to tell them and post photos when you return. Hackers will pounce when you’re on vacation and not likely to monitor your online presence.

Unless you’re using the registered banking platform – you should know exactly what it looks like. DO NOT send your banking information to any email or text message prompt. If you detect anything suspicious, be sure to call your bank and forward them any information.

Watch your spam folder – delete these emails regularly and if you should open an email from an untrusted source, do not click on any link because that is how hackers get a hold of your IP address.

Offers too good to be true

The saying goes, there is no such thing as a free lunch. The same goes in the online world, if you get an offer that is too good to be true, you should avoid it. This goes for an e-mail offering to deposit money into your account or web pop up telling you that you have won a prize. These are many techniques used by people or organisations to defraud you of your money and information.

Free online offers, security or system scans and anti-virus and malware tools are worth as much as you pay for them, nothing, or worse it could be used as a trojan to gain access to your system and information on it. Always invest in a reputable PC or mobile security package and keep it up to date.

For more information about proper IT security, contact Moncrieff – leaders in reliable and cost effective IT services.