While most of us aren’t aware of it, our existence is scattered across the World Wide Web…
As a matter of fact, most people have accounts on dozens of forums they haven’t visited in more than a decade and on social media platforms so deprived of user they resemble graveyards.
But what most people fail to realize is that every single one of those accounts gives one of thousands hackers a potential avenue into their private life… And that means, you need to secure them…
Don’t worry though, there are certain things you can do to keep both your old and new accounts secure.
Start by closing your old accounts…
As we mentioned above, when you stop using old accounts, you’re leaving a huge security gap and giving hackers from all around the world a perfect chance to obtain your personal data.
These old accounts can lead the way to more active and valuable accounts, so it makes sense to keep the number of accounts you have to a bare minimum…
Get a good password manager…
While killing off old accounts will leave you a small number of passwords to worry about, you still have dozens of other passwords you need to know. Luckily, there are some apps like lastPass and 1Password that can help you manage all of your login credentials.
They can also help you create new, more secure passwords, saving you from using the same password for every account you have and saving you from remembering a number of different ones as well…
Realize that VPN is a must…
First a little explanation – VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and in short, it’s a network that reroutes your internet traffic through encrypted servers, thus, keeping your personal information invisible to cybercriminals connected to the same network.
So if you’re spending a lot of time in coffee shops connected to a public Wi-Fi network, a good VPN provider like NordVPN will allow you to remain invisible to other users on the same network and add an additional layer of security to the data you’re sending and receiving on your device.
Keep you software updated…
Most hacks come from old, out-of-date software, which means, you should always make sure that every single security app you’re using is updated. This will keep both your PC/smartphone/tablet secure and by extension, your accounts you use through it.
Of course, most software packs and operation systems have auto-update options, so it’s not actually that hard to stay up-to-date at all times. Just make sure that these options are enabled on your device – while constant notifications may be annoying at times, they still keep you safe…
Finally… Watch what you share…
Lastly, you have to be aware that we as humans are often the weakest link in the security chain.
By leaving too much information that can be used to verify your identity – for instance, your address, birthday or even your favorite basketball team – you’re making harder for yourself to stay secure online.
Therefore, make sure that all of that information isn’t spread all over Facebook, Twitter or Instagram…
We want your feedback! What do you think about our security tips? Have any tips of your own? Share your thoughts with us by leaving a comment in the comment section bellow.
By Theresa Brawner
Theresa Brawner is a 28-year-old fitness instructor from Boston, MA, who regularly writes articles for www.diet.st. When she isn’t helping new moms get back in shape, you can find her in the kitchen, working on new recipes.