Are you concerned about your online security?

Our lives continue to migrate to online platforms as the world modernizes. Almost everyone nowadays owns some type of mobile phone or desktop. The pandemic turned the web and digital devices into our only form of communication.

Studies show that cyber-attacks went up by 600% in recent months. Most of these attacks consist of phishing email schemes. If you’re not careful, you can put your online security at risk.

Want to learn how to protect your online accounts? In this article, we cover some great online security tips for online protection. Read on to discover more!

1. Create Strong and Unique Passwords

Studies show that 53% of people reuse the same password across all their accounts. This makes your online accounts more vulnerable to an online security breach. Hackers steal information by trying the same combinations across different platforms.

The best way to avoid getting hacked is by using strong and unique passwords. You should not only avoid using common passwords that are easy to guess. It would also help if you used different passwords throughout your accounts.

Make it a habit to update your account passwords every few months. This can help you better enhance your account protection.

2. Use a VPN

Experts would advise users only to use a private connection. Whenever you’re in a public place, it’s better to use a personal hotspot than free WiFi. A hacker with malicious intent may leverage the free connection to get your accounts.

However, if you can’t avoid this, consider using a VPN. A VPN, or a virtual private connection, provides a secure layer. It encrypts the data that you exchange between a website you’re on.

There are many free and paid VPN options. Discover which one is best for your type of device.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

If you often browse the internet, you may already be familiar with 2FA. 2FA is an extra layer of security that you encounter when logging into a website. Generally, the only prerequisite you need to log in is a username or email and password.

2FA verifies your identity by giving you an item that only you have access to. This can be an SMS message or an email verification with a code. A hacker will have a harder time getting access to your account. With 2FA, you will also get an alert if someone tries to log into your account.

4. Use Disposable Credit Card Numbers

Credit card applications and online sites do not always provide the best security. However, there is another workaround for this. If you want to protect your online accounts better, try using disposable credit cards.

Some banks provide credit cards for one-time use. With your regular account, you will receive a new 16-digit number whenever you need to make a new purchase. If you have a card under Bank of America, you may use their program called ShopSafe.

Log into your account and use the app to create a temporary 16-digit number. You may also choose when those digits expire.

5. Don’t Save Passwords to Browser

Some browsers may offer to manage your passwords for you by saving your passwords. However, this can be more harmful than beneficial to your online security. We recommend that you turn off the “Save Password” feature on your default browser.

It would also help if you made it a habit to clear your cache after browsing. Saved searches, history, and cookies could hint at your personal data and information. Depending on your browser, you may also set  private browsing windows as the default.

6. Use a Password Manager

Instead of using your browser to save passwords, consider a password manager instead. It’s good practice to use different passwords for each site and account. However, it can be difficult to keep track of all your accounts.

The best way to do protect your passwords is by using a password manager. This serves as a vault for your passwords that you can access with one master password. Some password manager apps may even generate random and secure passwords for you.

Looking to boost your business’s online security? Click here if you’re planning on using a password manager for business.

7. Keep Your Devices and Accounts Updated

Don’t neglect to review and update your account information. Ensure that your accounts have the right data, like your backup address and phone number. If you ever forget your password, this will come in handy.

If you want to protect your personal information online, don’t only rely on online tools. Ensure to update your computer and operating system. System updates provide your device with bug fixes and security enhancements.

If you haven’t updated your device yet, find some time to do so. You may also consider setting up automatic updates.

8. Backup Important Files

If you store a lot of important files on your device, ensure to back them up. This way, if your accounts ever get compromised, you won’t lose valuable data. There are plenty of backup solutions for you to try.

One of the most popular backup methods is through the Cloud. Cloud services offer a server for you to store your information. You may also opt for hardware methods like a flash drive or external drive.

9. Explore Security Tools and Apps

It’s essential to download antivirus apps to protect your online data. However, there are many people who only download these apps and don’t explore them. It’s crucial to note that these programs are only effective if you know how to use them.

When installing security software, take some time to explore its settings. Check out its special features and use them to your advantage.

Proven Ways to Strengthen Your Online Security

Hacking techniques become more complicated as our technology continues to advance. Do you want to strengthen your online security? Here are nine proven ways to boost your cybersecurity.

Thanks for reading our article! Want to learn more ways to protect your online data? Check out our other guides and make your accounts bulletproof today!