We all hear stories of data breaches and hacking on the news or read about it online, and these issues are very serious for businesses and individuals in those businesses. While storing information digitally is more efficient than physical storage, it also comes with the risk of theft. A data breach at a company puts every employee at risk, and individuals who get hacked can feel frustrated and unsettled.
Rather than risk someone accessing your sensitive information, take note of the best tips for increasing data security as you investigate digital protection. This article will cover everything from equipping your device with antivirus software to keeping passwords complex to lessen the risk of a hack.
Keep Data Encrypted
While your phone keeps information encrypted, the same isn’t true for your laptop. A knowledgeable hacker can slip by your password and get access to every bit of information on your laptop.
Prevent this by keeping a security key on your storage drive. Encode it, too, so hackers can’t see your information without the password or key.
Avoid Free Wi-Fi
Although free internet may sound tempting—especially in common places like restaurants and airports—using it comes with risks. It’s much easier for hackers to access your information when you use free public Wi-Fi. Rather than rely on the promise of free internet, stick with using your cellular data since the information remains encrypted.
Pro Tip:
A cellular signal booster can help keep you connected to the nearest network tower, which means you’ll have better data speeds. When you have a cellular signal booster installed in your home, office, or vehicle, you boost communication between your phone and the nearest network tower. SureCall Canada sells cell phone reception boosters of varying sizes that are perfect for all users.
Equip Your Computer
Your computer should have up-to-date antivirus software to prevent the risk of viruses as you browse the internet. It’s always possible to accidentally click a link or visit an unsafe website. Therefore, protecting your computer against such dangers is highly important.
As you download antivirus software, remember to use a reliable program such as Windows Defender or macOS (depending on your device.) Both Windows operating systems and Macs come with preinstalled antivirus software. However, it’s usually best to have additional antivirus software, so make sure that you get some.
Don’t Download Strange Extensions
Exploring the internet is tempting—but it’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole as you click from site to site. So, explore the internet vigilantly. By visiting unfamiliar websites, you risk a digital attack. When you shop online, do so carefully, as some websites aren’t always legitimate.
It’s best that you only download add-ons when it’s necessary. Research and confirm its validity before installing any add-ons. Additionally, if you do this on a work device, you’ll have to get permission from your boss.
Lock Your Devices
Whether you use a laptop, tablet, or phone, set up a lock to protect your information and documents. This lessens the risk of an untrustworthy individual accessing your digital identity if they steal your device.
Pro Tip:
If it’s possible, use a fingerprint login in addition to a passcode. While someone may be able to guess a simple PIN or password, your fingerprint is unique to you. Additionally, it’s advisable to turn on remote tracking just in case you lose your device.
Secure All Accounts
Securing your accounts is just as important as protecting your device from viruses and hackers. Two of the best ways to do this include creating complex passwords and having two-step authentication. This is especially crucial for accounts such as your bank account.
Use Complex Passwords
Each of your accounts and devices should have unique passwords. While reusing the same password can be tempting—especially because it’s easier to remember—this puts you at a higher risk of getting hacked.
Experts recommend using a password generator, which is a tool used to create random passwords to help prevent the risk of a breach. When your password is a string of random words, letters, and symbols, it’s harder for hackers to access your data.
Pro Tip:
Since you’ll have complex passwords for every online account, if you need to jot them down in a notebook, keep it in a locked cabinet. Doing otherwise could put you at risk if someone steals the notebook. Furthermore, it’s always best to write down hints about the passwords rather than write exactly what they are.
Two-Step Authentication
Complex passwords are one thing but adding two-step authentication further secures your account. Many tech experts advise using this because it requires that a code or key gets sent to your mobile device before you can sign into the account.
Additional Must-Know Tips
In today’s day and age, you can never have too many tips for increasing data security, especially because data security means digital protection. In addition to the above-mentioned tips, it’s best that you do the following:
Never Reuse Passwords: Reusing passwords makes it easier for hackers to access multiple accounts.
Avoid Phishing Scams: Strange links could contain trogon horses or otherwise give hackers information.
Avoid Using Debit Cards Online: If hacked, you face higher risks than you would with a credit card.
Keep Your Device Updated: Companies roll out updates as they patch issues and further enhance the software.
As you protect your online profile, remember to use many of these tips to keep your information locked down (if not all of them.) The more you do to protect your digital identity, the better.
Who is SureCall Canada?
Relying on cellular data is a safe course of action, but depending on your location, finding a good connection may be a bit of a challenge. At SureCall Canada, you can purchase a cellular booster kit complete with an outdoor antenna, indoor antenna, amplifier, and other essentials.
Various building materials, your location, and even the weather can impair communication between your phone and the nearest network tower. However, with a cellular booster, you won’t have to face the frustration of dropped calls. We’ve got the booster for you whether you need it for your home, office, or vehicle. You make protecting your digital identity a little bit easier by relying on data.
