5 ways to protect yourself online

(NC) Between work, entertainment and staying in touch with friends and family, we spend many of our waking hours living in a digital world. While there are certainly many benefits of being connected to the online world, we’re also increasingly at risk of cyber attacks. Here are five ways to protect yourself online.

Use passwords wisely
By now, most people know that you shouldn’t use easy-to-guess passwords for websites and apps, like your child’s name or the word “password.” Create a unique password for every site you register with. That way, your other accounts won’t be at risk if the site is hacked. Each password should be at least 12 characters long and have a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. If you’re worried about remembering these, another more secure option is to use a passphrase. This is a mix of four or more random words, using a minimum of 15 characters, that are strung together that you can remember but would be very hard for someone else to guess.

Sign up for multi-factor authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra step to the login process and an extra layer of security to your accounts and devices. MFA can be something about you (like a fingerprint or facial recognition), something you know (like a PIN or security question) or something you own (like tokens or authenticators). MFA helps ensure it really is you trying to log into your account.

Share info safely
Before entering your credit card number or other personal information on a site, make sure it’s legitimate. Scammers have set up countless spoofed (fake) websites that pretend to be the homepages of retailers and banks to try to steal from you. Make sure the URL is accurately spelled out, has HTTPS at the beginning (the S stands for secure) and has a locked padlock symbol beside it.

Be tech smart
Set up all your devices so that they require a password to open them. Be vigilant in installing software updates and patches as soon as they’re available and set up automatic updates wherever possible.

Be cautious when using Wi-Fi outside of your private network. Avoid using public Wi-Fi if possible; but if necessary, use a virtual private network (VPN) to help protect your information while using.

When you’re done working on a secure site, use the log-out function. You can also clear your browser’s cache and history before and after you log onto a secure site like your bank.

Monitor your accounts
Even if you take all these precautions, there are still chances a scammer could sneak past your defences. Use an anti-virus software and a firewall to help prevent and detect suspicious activity on your devices and network. You should also regularly review your banking and credit card statements for unusual charges. If you do see something suspicious, contact your bank immediately.

Find more cyber safety tips at getcybersafe.ca.