8 Tips to Avoid Getting Hacked

8 Tips to Avoid Getting Hacked

It seems like if you haven’t already been hacked, you know someone who has. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your personal information online.

  1. Create strong passwords that you only use once. Instead of using your dog’s name and birthdate, because, seriously, those passwords can be targeted with brute force techniques that are frequently used by hackers, try using a passphrase. A passphrase is a phrase or set of words that is a password, but longer and stronger. For example: “Agawam executive gambling 679 mechanical”. That’s a passphrase. But remember, only use it once. It can be tempting to use a passphrase across different websites, but don’t do it. If hackers do break into one of your accounts, they will have access to others.
  2. Create strong usernames. You should make your username as complex as your password. It’s like double the protection.
  3. Run updates on your devices. Sometimes, updates come with security patches to prevent hackers from accessing your information, so do updates sooner rather than later on all of your devices. In addition, keep your apps up to date for the same reason.
  4. Make sure a website is secure before entering personal info. If you pay bills or shop online, look for a lock symbol in the address bar of your web browser. If it appears, you’re safe.
  5. To use Public Wifi or Not? We are going to advise Not, if at all possible. Consider using a VPN (virtual private network). It’s the only way to securely browse anywhere. And packages start at a mere $2.99 month.
  6. Use trusted Devices. Avoid using public computers, usually found in cafes, libraries, and schools. Attackers can install keylogger software on public computers and are then able to access your password(s).
  7. Don’t. Click. Links. In. Emails. Seriously, don’t do it! If you aren’t expecting someone specific to send you a link, do not click it.
  8. Monitor your logged in locations. If you use Google, and don’t we all, you can go to the very bottom of your Gmail account and you’ll see “Last Account Activity – Details” Click on Details and a new window will pop up and you will see if your account is open anywhere else, and you will have the option of closing all sessions. If your account is open anywhere else, it might be a good idea to change your password.

 

Resources:

Our Family Wizard – How to Avoid Getting Hacked,  https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/blog/how-avoid-getting-hacked-web-browsing

BlogTyrant – 17 Tips to Stop Facebook and Email Hackers Ruining Your Day, https://www.blogtyrant.com/facebook-email-security-hackers/