In this fast-pacing digital world, the internet has become a significant part of our daily lives. We often rely on it for convenience and running tasks faster and more efficiently. However, it also presents a great opportunity for criminals to take a peek on our information which can jeopardize our personal lives, finances, and peace of mind.
Here are some tips to safeguard your online presence and avoid falling for online scams:
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Use Strong, Unique, and Unrelated Passwords
Each accounts made on the internet are protected by passwords. However, some people just think of easy to remember passwords that are often related to them. Most of the people are fond of using their pets' names, birthdays, nicknames, and such, which made it easy for hackers to detect the password.
To create a strong and complex passwords, you should try incorporating words that are not entirely related to any of your interests. It also recommended to use symbols and numbers to further strengthen your password. If you are having a hard time remembering them there are secured passwords managers that you can use.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Most of the social media sites allow its user to put a 2FA for their accounts. This will add another layer of security by having to fill up a second form of verification aside from your password. It could be in a form of sending code through your phones or requiring you to answer a security question that you set upon creating your account.
By having 2FA, you can secure you devices by putting an extra layer of protection, especially if it gets lost. 2FA can also notify you if someone tries to access your account that is not you.
Verify the Source
Always check your source. Most of the time hackers would target older people as they are perceived to be less tech-savvy compared to the younger generations. This means that they are more susceptible to online scams since these people are not born during the age of the internet.
Before clicking on links and downloading files, always check and be skeptical especially if it is from an unfamiliar source such as emails, messages, or pop-up ads. Avoid entering sensitive data, such as credit card information, on unsecured sites.
Monitor Your Accounts
From time to time, it is important to regularly do a check up on your accounts. This includes your social media apps, emails, bank statements, and such. In this way, you can identify right away if something is missing or if something suspicious is lingering on your accounts.
Report Scams
A part from being individually responsible, reporting such online scams or even suspicious information can make a change in the online community. Aside from reporting to the authorities, you can also try posting on social media to raise awareness on such scams.
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