There is nothing 100% safe as long as you are on the internet. With hacks, scams, malware, the internet can feel like a dangerous place these days.
Many internet users are negligent and careless when it comes to their security online. Doing a little online shopping while using free public Wi-Fi. Downloading files from sketchy websites. And, of course, creating easy-to-guess passwords. So here’s a helpful list of the top 12 most common bad online habits you should stop ASAP.
Using Non-SSL Site
Make sure the site you’re visiting uses HTTPS. It is easy to check at the URL bar (top left corner) to see if it begins with HTTPS:// or not. A website that has an SSL certificate ensures all website traffic between your web server and user’s browser is secure and cannot be read by anyone. When your website has an active SSL certificate the application protocol changes from HTTP to HTTPS.
Using An Easy-To-Guess Password
Using a password that is easy to guess also may be putting your personal information at risk. Don’t use easy-to-guess passwords such as 12345678, abcd or your name. Here you can learn how to choose a strong password.
Checking Personal information On Public WiFi
Using free public Wi-Fi networks, for example, comes with any number of serious security risks, yet surveys show that the overwhelming majority of Americans do it anyway. In a study by privatewifi.com, whopping three-quarters of people admitted to connecting to their personal email while on public Wi-Fi. You should avoid accessing your personal information on Public WiFi
Ignoring Software Updates
Software Updates are the most annoying notification that we often get and it seems to happen at the most inopportune times. Most of us neglect the software updates and carry on our works. In fact, many of the more harmful malware attacks we see take advantage of software vulnerabilities in common applications, like operating systems and browsers.
These are big programs that require regular updates to keep safe and stable. So instead of procrastinating about software updates, see those updates as one of the most essential steps you can take when it comes to protecting your information.
Not Using 2FA
Two-factor authentication (2FA) — also known as two-step verification or multifactor authentication — is widely used to add a layer of security to your online accounts. The most common form of two-factor authentication when logging into an account is the process of entering your password and then receiving a code via text on your phone that you then need to enter.
The second layer in two-factor authentication means a hacker or other nefarious individual would need to steal your password along with your phone in order to access your account. Here’s How To Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) On Paypal, WhatsApp, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram In 2021
Not Using A VPN When Using Public Wi-Fi
A virtual private network (VPN) gives you online privacy and anonymity by creating a private network from a public internet connection. VPNs mask your internet protocol (IP) address so your online actions are virtually untraceable. Most important, VPN services establish secure and encrypted connections to provide greater privacy than even a secured Wi-Fi hotspot.
Installing Too Many Browser Extensions
When you are having too many browser extensions, you may miss some malware extensions. You think that the browser extensions improve your experience on the Internet. Of course, it is true. However, you get snooping on you when you get too many extensions which keep your logs you are doing on the Internet. Even though, some of them can be malware software and guess what? Your sensitive information has been shared.
No Antivirus And Antimalware
While ignoring antivirus updates is a bad digital habit, not having any software that protects you from malicious threats is even worse. Therefore, now would be a perfect time to do some research and get yourself reliable antivirus and antimalware programs.
Clicking On Random Links
You may have heard the term phishing. Phishing refers to the practice of tricking someone into revealing private information. Fishing and phishing are similar concepts — there’s bait involved with both. With a phishing scheme, that bait might be as simple as a text message or e-mail.
It may be as complex as a fake Web site designed to mimic your bank’s official site, which is called spoofing. You should never follow a banking link sent to you in a text message or e-mail. These links could potentially lead you to a spoofed Web site
Downloading Unknown Attachments
While we’re at it — don’t download any sketchy attachments either. If you don’t know the sender, just don’t click on anything in the email you’ve received. This is especially true if you’re at work, as hackers can gain access to your company’s sensitive files.
Accepting Unknown Friend Request
When you use social media, you may add anyone who sends you a friend request. But making social media a popularity contest exposes you to some risk. Instead, only add people you know in real life.
Using The Same Password For Muliple Account
The last common mistake I want to let you are using the same password for everything. After you get a strong password, you use it for every site and App which makes you weaker. Once you are hacked, hackers can check out whatever the sites they want because the password is the same.
I know that you may forget the password you are using however set a different password for each account you have. You will have more protection than having only one password for all accounts.
