Online security has never been more vital. From banking and shopping to socializing and storing personal memories, we rely on the Internet for nearly every aspect of our daily lives. However, with this convenience comes a host of vulnerabilities that cybercriminals are eager to exploit. While most people are aware of basic security measures like creating strong passwords, many remain oblivious to the more nuanced strategies that can fortify their defenses against cyber threats. This article explores five essential online security tips that go beyond the basics, protecting your valuable information from prying eyes.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Email
Many users enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on their banking and social media accounts but often overlook their email. Since your email is the gateway to most of your online accounts, if compromised, an attacker could use phishing scams to access all your other services. For example, online casino players are prime targets for cybercriminals due to the valuable personal and financial information they hold.
In 2020, online casino scams resulted in losses totaling over $2 billion globally, with more than 30% of players reporting that they had fallen victim to phishing emails. To help protect yourself, enable 2FA on your email. Always use legitimate online video gaming platforms with a high number of players and good reviews. And if you want to gamble, UKGC-licensed online casinos are ideal, but can come with restrictions. Instead, many players visit sites like those featured in expert non-Gamstop casino ratings that prioritize security and use encryption to safeguard your personal information even though they are based outside of the UK.
- Regularly Update Your Router’s Firmware
Your home router is the first line of defense against cyber threats targeting your network. Manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to address security vulnerabilities. However, unlike your computer or smartphone, routers typically do not update automatically. Make it a habit to check for and install router firmware updates every few months to ensure your home network remains secure.
- Implement DNS-level Protection
The Domain Name System (DNS) acts like the internet’s phone book, translating human-readable website names into IP addresses. By changing your DNS settings to use a secure DNS provider, such as Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 or Quad9, you can block malicious websites and prevent your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from tracking your browsing habits. This method of protection works at the network level, safeguarding all devices connected to your home network. It adds an essential layer of privacy and security, particularly for families with multiple devices.
- Use File Encryption
Although cloud storage services typically encrypt your files in transit and at rest, they still hold the encryption keys. For truly sensitive documents, consider using file encryption software before uploading to the cloud. By encrypting your files, you ensure that even if your cloud account is compromised, your most important files remain protected. Using encryption adds a critical layer of security, particularly for sensitive personal or business information.
- Regularly Check for Data Breaches
Data breaches are unfortunately common, and your information may be compromised without your knowledge. Use services like Have I Been Pwned to check if your email addresses or passwords have been involved in known data breaches. If you find your data has been compromised, change your passwords immediately and be on alert for potential identity theft attempts. Regularly monitoring your online presence can help you respond quickly to potential threats.