Ensuring the Security of Your Online Accounts Best Practices and Tips

Ensuring the Security of Your Online Accounts: Best Practices and Tips

It's shocking. Every click, every cookie, and every online service leaves a trail of accounts that often have weak defences to protect your important data. Account Takeover (ATO), where cybercriminals hijack your accounts, poses a significant threat: 17% of cyberattacks target web application vulnerabilities! That means nearly one in five attacks exploits a vulnerability in the websites we trust.

 

But don't panic! This is not a dead end. It's a call to action. This blog will equip you with the knowledge to protect your online accounts and turn them from vulnerable targets into impenetrable fortresses.

Build a Solid Foundation

Password Power

Let's face it: passwords are often our first line of defence for our online accounts. Yet 53% of users last updated them a year ago! Worse still, 57% write them down, and 62% share them electronically. These statistics clearly show that our passwords have a significant security gap.

Here's why strong, unique passwords are so important:

● Think of your password as a digital lock. A weak password is like a weak padlock – it can be easily cracked. Strong passwords are complex combinations that take much time and effort to crack.

● Uniqueness is key. Sometimes, we have to catch up, and instead of coming up with new passwords, we use the same password for all of our accounts. If one of your accounts is compromised, all of your accounts are compromised.

So, how do we create these strong passwords? Here's your recipe for success:

● Length is critical. Aim for at least 12 characters, but longer is better.

● Complexity is key. Use a mix of letters, symbols, and special characters to create something unique.

● Forget the dictionary and personal information. Avoid using words easily found in a dictionary or personal information (birthday, pet name).

Two-factor authentication (2FA)

2FA is a security process that requires two different forms of authentication to verify your identity when logging into your account. This additional step adds a strong layer of security and ensures that unauthorized access is blocked even if your password is compromised.

This is how 2FA works.

1. Something you know: It's your password, the first factor. It's the information you usually enter to access your account.

2. Something you have or have: The second factor is the code sent to your phone, a fingerprint, or a hardware token.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Security Measures

We've covered basic practices for protecting your online accounts. But for those who want an extra layer of protection or are dealing with vulnerable information, there are advanced security measures you can take.

Safe Browsing

Now that your accounts have strong passwords and two-factor authentication, let's focus on the digital environment you use to access them.

1. Software Updates

Software updates are like patches for your online armour. They fix vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Here's how it works:

● Update your web browser regularly. Most browsers will notify you when an update is available. Don't delay—install the update as soon as possible.

● Keep your operating system and other software updated, or check your software settings regularly for updates.

2. Antivirus and Antimalware

Antivirus and antimalware software constantly scans your computer for suspicious characters.

● Install a reputable antivirus and antimalware program. Look for a program with a good reputation and excellent detection rates.

● Schedule regular scans. Don't just install the software and forget about it! Set the software to scan your computer automatically at least once a week.

3. Check Links and Attachments

Phishing emails and malicious websites trick you into clicking a link or downloading an attachment that can infect your device or steal your information. How to stay vigilant:

● Please hover your mouse over a link before clicking it. Before clicking a link, check the bottom corner of your browser window for suspicious website addresses.

● Don't download attachments from unknown senders. Even if the email is from someone you know, be cautious if you don't expect an attachment.

● When in doubt, throw them out. If you're unsure about a link or attachment, err on caution and delete it.

Social Media

Social media is a great way to socialize, but staying safe is also essential. Follow these online safety tips to become a social media expert who puts privacy first:

1. Privacy Settings

Each social media platform has privacy settings that allow you to control who can see your information and activity. How to proceed:

 

● Check and adjust your privacy settings regularly. Don't settle for the default settings! Look for options like:

● Who can see your posts (public, only friends, etc.)

● What information appears on your profile (limit birthday, address, etc., if necessary)

● Create separate accounts for personal and professional use (optional, but gives you more control).

2. Think before you share

Social media is a public space, even with privacy settings. Here are some ways you can stay mindful:

● Avoid publicly sharing personal information, such as your address, phone number, birthday, or anything that could be used for identity theft.

● Be careful about sharing your location. Think twice before enabling location tags on posts, especially if they reveal your home or work location.

● Practice delayed gratification. Don't impulsively post about vacations, expensive purchases, or anything that could make you a target.

3. Suspicious strangers

Only some people on the Internet have good intentions. How to stay safe:

● Don't accept friend requests from people you don't know.

● Be careful about messages from strangers. Don't click on links or attachments in unsolicited messages.

● Report suspicious activity to the platform. If someone is harassing you or sending strange messages, report it to the social media site or app.

Use encrypted connections

When you visit a website or online account, information travels like packages. To ensure those packages are delivered safely:

1. HTTPS

HTTPS (Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol) encrypts the information you send and receive online, converting it into a format that any interceptor cannot read. How to detect a secure connection:

● Look for "HTTPS" at the beginning of the website address (URL). You may see a small padlock icon in the address bar, indicating the browser is secure.

● Make HTTPS a habit. Don't just rely on the padlock - check for HTTPS before entering sensitive information on a website.

2. VPN

Public WiFi networks, such as coffee shops or airports, can be convenient but sometimes unsafe. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts all your Internet traffic and creates a secure tunnel between your device and the Internet. VPNs are essential in these situations:

● Use a VPN when using public WiFi. This is especially important when accessing online accounts such as banking or email.

● Consider using a VPN for added security, even on a private network. While not always necessary, a VPN can help protect your online activities from being eavesdropped on by others.

Conclusion

Following the steps above, you can significantly improve your online security posture and protect your online accounts from unauthorized access. Remember that online security is an ongoing process. New threats constantly emerge, so staying vigilant and building solid defences is essential.