How to Improve Your Online Security

Tips to Keep Your Information Safe

I am all about simplifying my life to make time to do what I enjoy and makes me happy. However, in a world where daily phone and technology use is unavoidable (even though it could simplify your life), it's hard to know what to do in order to protect your data. 

According to a recent study, data security worries are on the rise, with 60% of individuals believing that their devices are vulnerable to security breaches. For example, many adults worry about sensitive information, such as banking details, being leaked by hackers who have gained access to their phones or laptops. 

With that in mind, here are some simple (yet effective) ways in which you can enhance your online security and reduce your stress levels moving forward. 

Avoid using the same passwords over and over again

Many people use the same passwords across multiple platforms. After all, this makes it easier to keep track of your passwords, and means you’re unlikely to forget your login details. However, this does leave you incredibly vulnerable to hackers, who can then gain access to multiple different accounts, from social media pages to online banking platforms, using the same password. 

As such, you should ensure that you do not use the same passwords over and over again. 

On a similar note, you should ensure that you set strong passwords that, while memorable, are not easy to guess from an outsider’s perspective. For example, you should avoid using your birthday, or generic passwords such as “Password123.” When curating a password, try to use a mixture of upper and lowercase letters, alongside special characters and numbers. This will make it more difficult for a hacker to guess your password, as it is entirely unique and complex. 

Change your passwords regularly

According to a recent report , 80% of all cyber security attacks involve a weak or stolen password. For this reason, it's crucial that you take password management seriously. While setting strong passwords is a great place to start, they should not be set in stone. In fact, experts advise that you change your password every three months. If this is something that you’d otherwise forget to do, set a reminder on your phone.

Change your IP Address

Learning how to change iphone ip address can also help you to stay safe online. After all, this will help you to hide your geolocation, so that you are less likely to be monitored online. This makes it far easier for you to protect your data from hackers, ensuring that private information remains private.

Use two factor authentication

Some applications, such as online banking portals, will allow you to set up two factor authentication procedures. This means that in addition to inputting your password, you’ll also have to provide the system with a secondary source of information. For example, you may receive a text to your phone that contains an additional code. While this means it can sometimes take a little longer to login, it greatly strengthens your cybersecurity practices and keeps your data safe. As such, you should always ensure that you enable this feature. 

Install cybersecurity software

Installing cybersecurity software onto your laptop, PC and similar devices can also boost your online security. After all, they act as an extra defence against harmful websites and online activity, allowing you to browse with confidence. Furthermore, while there are many versions of cybersecurity that you have to pay for, there are many free ones too. Alternatively, you can try out a product for three for a few weeks before committing to a purchase! 

Know the dangers you are facing

One of the easiest ways to improve your online security in 2024 (and beyond), is to know what dangers you are facing on a daily basis. This will allow you to adjust your online behaviors accordingly so that you can browse the web without anxiety or fear.

For example, as mentioned above, insecure passwords are likely the biggest threat to your online security at the current moment in time. However, you should also be mindful of the websites you frequent, and the information you are sharing when doing so. If a website seems suspicious, be sure to exit it right away.