With each year that passes, digital security becomes more and more important. 2022 is the year to start thinking about your online security and data protection as the world becomes increasingly digitized and dangerous. Data is now one of the most valuable commodities, as it can be sold to third-party companies for huge profits. Unfortunately, there is no easy way of knowing an app or website is tracking you, as even with the increased importance of data privacy, loopholes can always be found as technology is continuously evolving. So how can you look after your personal security online?
Use a Password Manager
A strong password is the first defence in protecting yourself online. The strongest passwords are a string of numbers, characters, and letters in no particular order and with no real meaning. The fewer words which may be traceable to your personal life or social media, the harder the password will be to crack. Hackers can use password-hacking software to scan a person’s online presence and test password combinations using online information. Whilst complex passwords are much more effective, they are a lot harder to remember; this is how password managers come into play.
Password managers keep all of your passwords in one encrypted password protection app. They also can generate strong passwords or advise you on which passwords may be too weak. Whilst search engines like Google offer to save your passwords for you, it is best to use an external app so all of your passwords are not compromised if there is a Google hack.
Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi
Using a VPN, or Virtual Private Network, particularly on public networks, can help ensure your data remains private and no one is snooping on your data on the same public network. VPNs can also mask your data transmissions and stop filtering and censorship that some search engines employ for different countries. So not only is your data safer, but you can have wider access to content across the world. When shopping around for a VPN provider, thoroughly research the best and most secure provider. As VPN companies can also collect data, ensure you know what is being collected and how it may be stored.
Device security software
Purchasing security software for your devices is one of the best ways to secure your personal information from a data breach. Our mobile phones and laptops contain most of our important personal data, like addresses, phone numbers, bank details, and passwords. Security software gives you 24/7 security, as well as consistent data reports on any emerging potential threats to your device. Commercial or free software available online usually cannot perform deep-rooted system analyses; thus, paid software is the only way to know your device is truly secure. More so, if your device gets stolen or is misplaced, security software can allow for remote wiping or locking of the device, preventing thieves from accessing any important information.