Five Data Protection Measures Everyone Should Use
Though most people don’t realize it, their data is incredibly important. With your data, thieves can hack into your bank account, get money from you through ransomware, or destroy everything you’ve created. We are already used to the day-to-day protections we use for our home and our personal safety, so it’s about time that we all start putting more effort into protecting your digital property as well. To be safe online and to protect your invaluable data, start using these five protection measures:
photo/ Pete Linforth via pixabay
- Use Unique Passwords
That old password you made as a kid, and have used for everything since, must go. Instead, make unique, difficult passwords for each major site you sign up to. This is especially crucial for places that have your financial data, including your bank. If you have the same password everywhere, then if that company’s server gets hacked, the thief has your password for your bank and all your private information. Protect yourself by using difficult passwords, and use unique passwords for each site you use.
- Know Where You Are Online
Another way you can protect yourself online is to go through and delete all your old accounts that you don’t use any more. Not only can these websites have potentially embarrassing mementos of our times as teenagers or children, but it can also pose a security risk. Search for old usernames and emails through Google and delete all the accounts that you don’t use.
- Back Up Your Data
Your hard drive is full of so much important information, and not backing it up is risky. Your hard drive could be damaged, it could shut down, it could be lost or stolen, and it can be hacked. To ensure that your data is protected and secure, always use a reliable and safe backup software.
- Invest in Security Systems
Though there are free security systems for your computer, you should consider installing a professional-grade system. This means having a strong firewall that stops viruses from coming through, and software that analyzes and captures any viruses or malware that might slip through temporarily undiscovered.
- Be Smart Online
Never click on suspicious links, especially if they come to you through your email system. As soon as there is any urgent email either from your bank or the government, consider it suspect. A good way to check is to search the sender through Google. If you are still not sure, it is always best to call your bank to confirm. Typically, your bank will not notify you of important information through your email. Instead, check your online banking to see if you have an email or other messages. The general rule here is: if you don’t know the sender, be apprehensive.
Being safe doesn’t just mean locking your door after you and looking both ways across the street. Being safe also applies to the online world, because your digital information is, in many ways, far more important than your belongings. Protect yourself online, and protect all of your digital assets in the process.
Author: Carol Trehearn
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